Apple is expected to drop the iOS 5.1 firmware in the near future and according to YourDailyMac the iOS 5.1 firmware could actually be set for release March 9th. The evidence for this release date comes from eleven new profiles found for various iPhone-operators. More information on these iPhone-operators can be found in the quoted area below…

The profiles that have been found by us are intended for operators in Japan, France, Greece, Finland, and Sweden. By updating the profile on the iPhone, it will make sure that the network connection will work correctly after Apple releases iOS 5.1. The iOS updates are normally rolled out at the same time worldwide, so everyone should expect iOS 5.1 to become available next month.

With a release date set for around the same time the iPad 3 is expected to be announced, it seems we may see both the iPad 3 and the iOS 5.1 firmware released simultaneously. Now obviously nothing is set in stone, but if this rumour is correct it would make sense that Apple would release a new product running a slightly updated firmware version.

Do you think we will see both the iOS 5.1 firmware and the iPad 3 released at the same time? Do you believe this rumor? Leave your replies or other thoughts in the comments section below.