Just six months after launching the iPad, Apple is believed to lining up the release of a successor to its groundbreaking tablet computer.

According to component makers in Taiwan, the “iPad 2” could hit the shops as early as February 2011, but is more likely to be nearer April 2011 as testing of its firmware has still to be concluded.

Either way, the launch would dent the sales the Blackberry’s first tablet, “the playbook”, which is set for a spring release.

Online technology forums are awash with conjecture as to what the “iPad 2” will look like and how it will improve on its predecessor.

Predicted upgrades include a higher screen resolution, similar to that of the iPhone 4, as well as the addition of cameras on the front and back of the computer to enable video calls using Apple’s FaceTime software.

It could also include a smaller, 7” screen to allow it compete directly with e-readers like the hugely-popular Amazon’s Kindle.

E-books now accounts for 9 percent of all book sales in the US, although just 1 per cent in Britain.

Google is also looking to enter the e-book market with the launch of its first e-book store this month, which will go head-to head with Amazon.

According to DigiTimes, iPhone and iPad manufacturing giant Foxconn has been ordered to build 400,000 to 600,000 units of the iPad 2 in the next 100 days.

Since its launch, the iPad has begun to revolutionise the travel industry. All manner of users have been used, from providing inflight entertainment to portable concierge services in hotels. iPads can also be used as mobile city guides for travellers, using sites such as city.mobi.

This free mobile service is the leading mobile travel guide to over 600 destinations worldwide, and provides detailed information about accommodation, attractions, dining, city guides, and transport information tailored for users on the go.

These cities include London (london.mobi ), Abu Dhabi (abudhabi.mobi ), Johannesburg (joburg.city.mobi ), and Rio de Janeiro (rio.mobi),