First-quarter production volume forecasts of Apple’s next-generation iPad device are to be lowered from 600,000 units to 400,000 units after it emerged supply issues with the device’s touch-panels and adjustments in specifications would push back production.
Both Foxconn Electronics and Apple have declined to comment on the rumors but sources close to Chinese-language trade publicationDigitimeshave said the Cupertino-based company is still on course to mass-produce the iPad 2 by the end of this month.
Depsite reports that Apple had tied up60% of worldwide touch-panel displaysupplies, the company has apparently lined up LG Display, Samsung Electronics and Chimei Innolux (CMI) to backup screen supplies, ensuring it will not need to delay shipments due to a lack in panel supply.
Source indicated that Apple’s iPad inventory stood at between 1-1.5 million units in January, with Apple ordering 2 million iPads that month to boost supply. With indications that Apple Store’s around the world are pushing back shipment dates, Apple could be ready to phase out the first-generation iPad, getting ready to replace them with the new iPad model.
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We expect all to become clear whenApple reveals the iPad 2at a media event on March 2, we will of course keep you updated.
Story byMatt Brian
Matt is the former News Editor for The Next Web. You can follow him on Twitter, subscribe to his updates on Facebook and catch up with him(show all)Matt is the former News Editor for The Next Web. You can follow him onTwitter, subscribe to his updates onFacebookand catch up with him onGoogle+.
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