Apple expected to announce new iPad on March 2

Apple on Wednesday sent out invitations to media for what is presumed to be the unveiling of its next-generation iPad on March 2.

The announcement comes as a swarm of competitors launch tablets aimed to unseating the Cupertino company's dominant position in the new consumer computer category. Apple's iPad success last year has created a virtual industry of me-too tablets. Now Apple appears ready to try to once again put distance between its tablet and the competition.

The electronic invitation is embedded with an image of an app-like calendar date that is being peeled away, revealing an iPad behind it.

"Come see what 2011 will be the year of," it reads.

The event will be held at 10 a.m. at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater in San Francisco.

:story: Full story: San Jose Mercury News