The next version of Apple's iPad tablet will reportedly be called the iPad HD, and will launch alongside the next iPhone later this year. The new device will sport a double resolution screen (2048 x 1536), according to This is my next.

The product will apparently be a "pro" device aimed at a higher end market, such as people who work in video and photo production. It will supposedly be introduced alongside something like an iPad version of Final Cut or Aperture.

Earlier this week, a rumor started that the next iPad would not be called the iPad 3, but rather the iPad 2 Plus, and slated for a late 2011 launch. The iPad 2 was announced and started shipping in March 2011. In other words, Apple will be releasing an iPad 2 successor less than a year later.

Apple likely doesn't want to call the device iPad 3 to limit the backlash it will get for making the iPad 2 obsolete so quickly. It makes great business sense to release a new iPad in time for the holiday season, and I'd bet that this won't the first iPad that we'll see released during this time period.

Earlier this month, we learned a new iPad had just recently been added to the production schedule of Apple's supply chain. Just like for the new iPhone, small volumes are expected in August, with units ramping up in September and October. The new iPad is supposed to be even thinner and lighter, with a panel resolution increase.

This isn't the first time that Apple has given an odd name to a successor. The first iPhone was released on June 29, 2007. Instead of releasing the iPhone 2, Apple introduced the iPhone 3G on June 9, 2008. Next, the iPhone 3GS was announced on June 8, 2009 and arrived on June 19, 2009.