Taiwan-based suppliers are said to be readying parts for next-generation iOS devices, namely the iPhone 5 and the next-generation iPad. According to this source, we should see both devices in September or October, although it’s doubtful that we’ll see an iPad 3 this year. Yet, the next iPad might sport a higher-resolution screen, according to this report.
As expected, Foxconn will be in charge of assembling the device, with parts from several other makers, such as Largan Precision which will take care of supplying the cameras:
Upstream component makers including Foxconn Electronics (Hon Hai Precision Industry), which is in charge of assembling the devices; Simplo Technologies and Dynapack International Technology, in charge of manufacturing batteries; TPK Holding and Wintek, in charge of touch panel modules; Catcher, in charge of chassis; and Largan Precision, in charge of webcams, are all expected to benefit from the orders.
This is in line that previous rumors that Apple was looking to ramp up the manufacturing of the next-generation iPhone. What’s not in line with previous reports is the claim that along with an iPhone 5 we’ll see an iPad 3 in September or October. A release at this time would fall out of the iPad’s yearly release cycle:
while iPad 3 has just recently been added to the production schedule with both set to be produced in small volumes in August and the volume will start picking up in September and October.
Will we see an iPad 3 in September? That wouldn’t make sense in my view. What sources might be referring could be an iPod touch, which is indeed due for an upgrade sometime in September. A new iPad 3 is more likely to come out sometime in the first quarter of next year, consistent with previous releases.
Nonetheless, this source reveals some details regarding Apple’s plans for the next-generation iPad, claiming that the company is aiming at weakening its competitors before they have the chance to build more compelling products. According to this report, the next iPad will have a much higher-resolution screen, at 250dpi, allowing for crisper text and images, much like the one found on the current iPhone.
Meanwhile, iPad shipments remain strong despite Foxconn’s recent factory fire at a facility in Chengdu, China. In fact, Apple might ship over 40 million units this year.
(via Digitimes)
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