My Predictions for iPad 2

I've had an iPad now for a six weeks or so, and an iPhone 4 for about three. They're both great, but I can't help wondering about what might feature in the next releases, particularly iPad 2. Here are my predictions:
1) Forward facing camera for FaceTime support.
2) More memory, specifically 512Mb to match iPhone 4.
3) Improved performance, probably by further reducing the silicon footprint (ie fewer, smaller chips).
4) A compass and an improved gyroscope.

And then there's a short list of things that probably won't feature in iPad 2:
1) Backward-facing camera - the iPad's form factor doesn't really support photography. An app (or iOS features) that used wifi or Bluetooth to connect to a third-party camera for setup, review and backup purposes seems more likely.
2) Retina Display - it would be pretty fantastic, but a 10" panel at 320+ DPI doesn't sound very likely.
3) New case - it's not impossible that iPad 2 will feature a case and antenna layout that mimics that of the iPhone 4 but I don't think there's enough time to deliver such a radical change if Apple run with an annual upgrade schedule; look for this in iPad 3.
4) USB or HDMI ports - I don't think the existing case is thick enough to house either of these connectors and I don't think they fit the product's philosophy. Don't expect either to arrive in iPad 2.

Finally, there may be some features in iOS 5 to strengthen the iPad/iPhone link and to make them natural operating partners:
1) A fast, multi-tasking local network between the two devices to allow files or pictures to be shared without requiring a third-party through which to sync.
2) An emphasis on cloud services, possibly making DropBox (or something similar) ubiquitous with developer APIs to simplify it's use.

Of course we won't actually find out what's in iPad 2 till spring next year and I don't plan to upgrade until at least the 2012 (unless iPad 2 is spectacularly better than iPad 1). If you're in two minds about buying now or waiting, my advice is to buy now and enjoy the existing features rather than waiting for new gizmos that might, or might not, appear next year.