Rumor: iPad 3 to employ a $70 to $80 price hike?

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MacRumors points to a single Sina Weibo user who posted what is purported to be iPad 3 cost premiums over the iPad 2s now on the market (above). If true (and it seems a stretch at this point that Chinese locals would have U.S. prices), it would be the first time Apple has deviated from its original price matrix.

There is talk about Apple keeping its iPad 2s in circulation at a reduced cost, thereby making another tier of product. Best Buy is currently selling iPad 2s for $50 off across the board for instance, and there are several sales on specific iPad models with increasing frequency. Apple charges $419 currently for an iPad 2 refurb.