Before Apple's big next-generation iPad media vent hits Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on Wednesday, word has it that the Cupertino company will drop the numbers game when it comes to naming the new iPad. Specifically, they're going to call the new tablet the "iPad HD" and not "iPad 3." The name will reflect the device's new high-definition capabilities and look.

CNET says "A developer who's previously provided reliable information with respect to things Apple and otherwise tells us the next iPad uses the HD moniker instead of going with 'iPad 3.' "

And Venture Beat notes:

Why iPad HD? As I discussed in my rumor roundup, Apple’s next iPad is expected to sport a ridiculously high-resolution display running at 2,048 by 1,536 pixels. By comparison, current iPads feature a much lower resolution 1,024 by 768 display. The higher-resolution display will not only make text and pictures sharper, it’ll also make the iPad HD the only tablet to support 1080p high-definition at its full resolution (1,920 by 1,080). Expect Apple to market the hell out of that feature.

Rumor also has it that, as Venture Beat goes on to point out, "Apple is now buying 7.1-inch screen components in preparation for a smaller iPad release later this year."

On Wednesday, Apple will have its iPad bash in San Francisco. It remains to be seen whether or not this is an official launch or just an obnoxious amuse-bouche for Mac fans and media. Whatever it is, we are (terribly and predictably) very excited. And we want one. Alas.