iOS 8.1 beta files suggest higher-resolution iPad incoming

apple ipad air 2

A sharper screen than ever?




We know Apple is holding an event next week, where it's likely to show off a new iPad. But could it have a higher-resolution screen than the current model?


One developer thinks so. Hamza Sood has uncovered image files in the iOS 8.1 beta that are 3x versions of the iPad's UI, Ubergizmo reports. The iPhone 6 Plus used triple-sized elements to keep its Retina status, which suggests we could be in for a higher-resolution iPad next week.


Of course, Apple could have used these elements only for testing purposes, so we're not betting the house on it yet.


Rumours have suggested Apple will unveil a 12.9-inch iPad Pro next week. But these rumours have been doing the rounds for a while now.


Whether or not we see a higher-resolution iPad next week, it's highly likely Apple will lift the lid on some new models of its bestselling slate PC. Odds are we'll see a new iPad Air, with 2GB of RAM – up from 1GB on the current model – and TouchID, so it can play nice with Apple Pay.


We could also see a new iPad mini.


Apple's invite doesn't give much away. It reads: "It's been way too long." The iPad Air was announced almost exactly a year ago, which is pretty standard in terms of upgrade schedules.


We'll be on hand at the launch a week today, so stay tuned for more.


Read more: iPad Air 2 Features: What we want to see