Electronista reports on a new article [Google translation] from Taiwan's Commercial Times claiming that Apple is planning for production of 65-70 million iPad 3 displays in 2012, paving the way for a significant boost to Apple's tablet sales.
Shipments for the new LCD panel, believed designed by Sharp but being manufactured by LG Display and Samsung, were said by the Commercial Times to be already booked to the order of 65 million to 75 [70] million units for the year. Versus production of about 40.5 million in 2011, it would represent 60 to 73 percent higher shipments than last year.
That 65-70 million number includes only iPad 3 displays, and with Apple having nearly one quarter's worth of iPad 2 sales ahead of the iPad 3 introduction and the company being rumored to continue offering the iPad 2 as a lower-cost option following the iPad 3's introduction, Apple's total iPad sales projections for the year appear to b even higher.
Top Rated Comments
I purchased an iPad 2 last fall. If iPad 3 has retina display, I'll buy another. If it has Siri, I'll give away the iPad 2 and replace it with a second iPad 3.
My only concern is that Apple is eventually going to be charged with Monopoly because no one else will be able to successfully compete with their advanced technology. The only advantage they will have is the ability to sell on price and make very little if any profit. (Or you can carry around three competetors products for the same price and still not have all the benefits one iPad provides)
crazy
Also, the iPad 1 was wobbly like a Weeble! The new ones can rest flat on a table—much better. Tablets should always have a perfect flat back. (At least both models are metal, unlike some plastic tablets I could name...)
I'll say this: I, too, was not pleased with the back of iPad 2 compared to the first iPad, but that changed after I owned it for awhile. Definitely more comfortable to hold reliably, The scoop could almost cause you to drop it. Holding the iPad 2 is a lot more secure feeling -- and you don't have to open your hands up quite as much so it's more comfortable over a long period (late night reading).
@nagromme -- correct about the Weeble statement -- I like the new back better!