There are contradictory rumors right now. Most are second hand from fans that talked with or overheard members of U2 recently leaving the studio or something like that.
First off, statements can be greatly misinterpreted in these circumstances and sometimes exagerrated.
Secondly, Bono is known to say ALOT of stuff off the cuff which is what he would LIKE to do but looking realistically at the situation will not happen. I think if he did say an album next spring and tour right after, it was a case of over zealous off the cuffness LOL.
Third, supposedly Bono also said it might be quite some time before U2 tours again and was not sure if they would tour for the next album. So this flies right in the face of what a fan said Bono said.
Logically, the new album will most likely be out in Fall of 2003 with a tour to follow starting in 2004. I would think that is the quickest we will see them on the road again. If they run into problems or change the direction of the album it could all be pushed back another year. Who knows, only the band has an IDEA, I dont think they even know for sure right now. So just look forward to the new songs on Best Of and wait for the band to tell us what they are going to do.