The iPad to to debut on March 2. Clever, as Apple always is. But as we gear up for the event, we take a moment to reflect on the growing tablet space and what a second gen iPad means for the market.  Expectations run high for the iPad 2, and Google’s Android OS updates have ensured that Apple can’t get too comfortable in its leadership position.  The tablet races seem to be speeding up, and Apple, from design to walled marketplaces, is determined to do its thing.

Outside of rumors, there’s little to be said about the iPad 2 at all.  We can expect the iPad 2 to feature a speedier processor, and at least one camera.  The device will likely be a thinner model than the first generation iPad, and perhaps a built-in 3G network option for the new carrier partner, Verizon.

While this feature list is enough to get gadgetheads scratching at their wallets, it’s the software that will really emphasize the iPad’s ability to remain differentiated in the market, and whether or not that’s a good or bad thing.  Apple may announce an updated OS for the tablet sector, and it’s the platform itself that’s going to be the primary junction for mobile-related activity.  From a business development standpoint, Apple’s marketplace is heavily tied to its OS, while consumers stand to benefit from the array of products emerging here.

Google’s fully aware of the monetization potential behind a mobile OS, having updated Honeycomb 3.0 specifically for the tablet market.  While supporting tablets have yet to prove worthy of a full-on iPad comparison, Android’s performance in the smartphone sector indicates  Google’s ability to reach consumers on a different level than Apple’s.

Beyond basic product updates and announcements, we’ll be looking in between the lines to see what it all means for search and location trends, the mobile enterprise and emerging business markets.  Recent developments around Apple’s (and Google’s) in-app subscription models, media partners, mobile browsing and cloud-driven personalization all demonstrate the true value in the mobile space.