Apple to roll out 128 GB iPad, rival to Microsoft's Surface Pro

By Salvador Rodriguez

Jan. 29, 2013 12 AM PT

Apple will begin selling a 128 gigabyte version of its fourth-generation iPad starting Feb. 5.

The Cupertino, Calif., company announced the new version of its tablet Tuesday, priced at $799 for Wi-Fi only and $929 for a cellular network-connected model.

Currently, Apple’s largest storage capacity tablet is a 64 GB iPad, which sells for $699 for Wi-Fi only and $829 for the cellular-enabled version.

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The 128-GB iPad model appears to be a direct shot at Microsoft, which will be releasing its own tablet, the Surface Pro, just a few days later, on Feb. 9.

Microsoft says the Surface Pro is designed for professionals and heavy-duty users who want a powerful device with vast storage space -- features Apple addresses with the 128 GB iPad.

The Surface Pro starts at $899 for a 64 GB version and $999 for a 128 GB model.

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