Apple iPad 128GB to go on Sale February 5

The Apple iPad 128GB has debuted with a Retina Display. The new size option was recently rumored and is now confirmed for the fourth generation iPad model.

Apple will offer the 128GB tablet PC in both Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular models starting on February 5. Apple will make the new units available in both black and white.

The new “ultimate” iPad will be offered at Apple retail stores, through the Apple online store and at authorized Apple iPad retailers.

While most users likely will not be willing to spend $799 for a Wi-Fi only device or $929 for the cellular data connected units, Apple is gearing the units towards enterprise customers and high-end users. The company specifically hopes to target professionals in the creative and medical industries.

In an official Apple press release for the 128GB iPad, Apple SVP of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller says:

“With more than 120 million iPads sold, it’s clear that customers around the world love their iPads, and everyday they are finding more great reasons to work, learn and play on their iPads rather than their old PCs. With twice the storage capacity and an unparalleled selection of over 300,000 native iPad apps, enterprises, educators and artists have even more reasons to use iPad for all their business and personal needs.”

The move to debut a new device offering mid-cycle is strange for Apple. The company has largely stuck to its annual upgrade cycle which has debuted new devices. However, Apple has continued to lose market share to Google Android devices and several studies have recently found slipping interest in Apple devices. By issuing a mid-cycle release Apple can increase interest in a line that has not been updated in four months.

Releasing the 128GB iPad also allows Apple to more closely compete with Microsoft at a time when the Surface Pro is preparing to release with a full version of Windows 8 installed. Microsoft is said to be targeting the high-end and enterprise market that Apple now appears to be focusing its efforts towards.

[Image via GizmoCrazed]