14 DAY TRIAL // A discovery in iOS 5.1 betas indicates that Apple may roll out the final version of the software on March 9th, which falls on a Friday. Rumors say the iPad 3 should launch around that time as well.
A total of eleven new profiles have been discovered in iOS 5.1 for various iPhone-operators. They are set for a March 9 release and it stands as indication that Apple is at least planning to release iOS 5.1 around that date.
According to YourDailyMac, the profiles indicate that iOS 5.1 will be released for iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod touch third- and fourth-generation, as well as the iPad 1 and iPad 2. The iPad 3, whenever it’s released, should come with iOS 5.1 pre-installed.
The profiles target operators in Japan, France, Greece, Finland, and Sweden, the blog says. These code strings ensure that the network connection will work correctly after Apple rolls out the new iOS version for devices that use cellular networks (i.e. iPhones and 3G-capable iPads).
Since Apple generally rolls out iOS updates at the same time in all territories around the globe, iOS 5.1 should become available early next month.
March 9 falls on a Friday, which is not the best day of the week to launch a new product, such as the iPad 3. Most rumors say Apple is planning to unveil its third-gen tablet alongside the finished iOS 5.1.
There’s a good chance Apple will announce both iPad 3 and iOS 5.1 in the week of March 9. Tuesday is one of Apple’s favorite days for major announcements. The company may lift the cloth off the two products as soon as March 6.
According to several prominent hackers in the iOS community, an incremental iOS 5.0.2 should make its way onto iDevices before iOS 5.1 is released. Only time will tell who was right and who was wrong.