iPad 5 release date rumors have been spreading online like wildfire and a recent  photograph of what appeared to be the next iPad's front panel appeared online which is only get Apple fans more excited about the potential product.

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst for KGI Securities, the fourth generation full-sized iPad (and the iPad mini, which was launched at the same event) might not be enough to fend off competitors. Kuo cited Microsoft's Surface tablet as posing a particular risk to Apple's dominance.

The new iPad is also predicted to have a totally new display. Instead of the glass-on-glass bonding of the current model, the iPad 5 is expected to have a single layer of glass with a two surface coating. Many believe the Sharp IGZO technology will look better and help the battery.

Another iPhone 5 rumored features includes the arrival of a cellular compatible standard SIM port, meaning that it can make and receive phone calls. The processor will be faster possibly running on the iOS 7 expected at the WWDC 2013.

When exactly will the iPad 5 be released? The most recent information seems to point to Apple gearing up for a June launch for its tablet. This would give it enough distance from the iPad 4 to warrant a new model, without running the risk of annoying its customers by releasing three new iPads within a year.