The buzz over the next Apple product usually starts about 24 hours after the newest toy is introduced, so devotees might be happy to hear that two new iPad models could be announced as soon as January 26, 2012.

The current iPad 2 will be left to do the job of competing with the Amazon Fire at a price level, while the additions will target the mid-range and high-end tablet market, says DigiTimes, citing sources at Apple’s supply chain partners.

Instead of the previously-rumored 7.85-inch, the upcoming iPad models will still feature 9.7-inch screens but come with QXGA resolution (1,536×2,048 pixels), the sources indicated. Dual-LED light bars are designed for the new iPads to strengthen the brightness of the panels, the sources added.

Samsung will manufacture quad-core A6 processors for Apple, instead of the dual-core A5 used in the current iPad 2.

Start lining up now, if that’s your thing.

Apple to unveil two versions of next-generation iPad in January, sources claim [Digitimes]

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.