Apple set to release 128GB iPad early February

Photo Credit: Apple

Apple today announced a 128GB version of the fourth-generation iPad, which boasts a Retina display and with double the maximum storage.

Rumors began to swirl last week that the Cupertino, California-based technology giant would dish out a new tablet with increased storage capacity, but it was thought on the most part that the device would be rolled out during the March refresh of tablets--or that the rumors were bunk.

Instead, Apple took to the wires to announce the new tablet today, which complements the existing 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB tablets in the iPad 4 range.

It also comes a day after Apple released the latest version of its mobile operating system, iOS 6.1, which includes support for the 128GB storage model, further support for more 4G LTE markets including Nordic states and Middle Eastern countries, and a range of security fixes.

Apple vice president of marketing Phil Schiller said in prepared remarks: