Tech fans around the world could be in for more exciting news from Apple, as the company is set to unveil the next generation of its ever-popular tablet computer, with the launch of the iPad 2 in San Francisco next week.

According to All Things Digital, “several sources close to the situation say the (March 2) date is firm and will take place in San Francisco, likely at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts” (These reports have been confirmed after this story was originally posted).

In its latest earnings, the Cupertino-based company reported that it had sold nearly 15 millions iPads since the devices went on sale last spring.

Analysts have predicted that the newest version “will be thinner, have an improved display, front-facing camera and Facetime video chat support.”

Still unknown is whether Apple CEO Steve Jobs will make an appearance, as he is on leave to deal with ongoing health issues and when the tablet will hit the market.

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Photo Credit: 1st generation iPad from Glenn Fleishman

• Tag: Apple, iPad 2, launch date, San Francisco, tablet computers