A new report from research firm iSuppli has released its expectations in terms of sales figures for the iPad, according to AppleInsider.  

The firm has called for about 14.4 million sales in 2011 and about 20.1 million in 2012.  The report states that this year's sales will wind up being driven by people who get in on the craze early, and will be drawn to the iPad's touch-screen interface.  However, once 2011 and 2012 arrive, the firm believes that more and more will adopt the iPad due to the applications available within the App Store, an improvement in functionality and a decline in prices.

And believe it or not, iSuppli actually thinks these sales figures are "conservative!"  They feel that Apple could greatly increase sales by either adding features or support for Adobe Flash, which is still highly unlikely given past reports.  

"Touch is the new standard for user interfaces, providing a naturally intuitive way of operating an electronic device, whether you are 2 or 92," stated Rhoda Alexander, director of monitor research for the firm.  "The tablet form factor is ideally suited to touch.  The iPad represents an intriguing mix of two devices that have struggled to gain traction for years: Internet appliances and tablet PCs."

"Apple has a track record of defying great odds and successfully navigating previously uncharted waters, such as it did with the iPhone," the report continued.  "With initial orders falling in line with expectations, Apple is likely to stick with its strategy of not using Flash unless there is a notable impact on sales."