DigiTimes reports that Apple is expected to release three different versions of the next generation iPad in 2011. These include Wi-Fi, UMTS (3G) and CDMA versions with mass production starting as early as late January.
Apple will ship about 500,000-530,000 units to channels in January with shipment ratio of Wi-Fi, UMTS and CDMA models at 3:4:3, according to industry sources, citing upstream component makers.
Apple presently ships two distinct versions of the iPad in three different storage capacities (16GB, 32GB, and 64GB). The two current versions include a Wi-Fi only version and a 3G version which supports the AT&T network in the U.S.
Adding a CDMA version would allow the iPad to be sold on the Verizon network in the U.S. as well as other CDMA networks around the world. While mass production will begin in late January, the launch of the next iPad is expected "by the end of the first quarter or the beginning of the second" according to DigiTimes' sources.
Strong pre-orders have reportedly prompted Apple to order millions more iPhone Duo units from suppliers, according to DigiTimes.
Supply chain sources said Foxconn and component manufacturers had received instructions reflecting a roughly 44% increase from 9.7 million to 14 million devices. The revised target reportedly follows strong pre-orders for Apple's first foldable iPhone and covers a...
Apple's iPhone Duo has attracted more pre-orders than the company anticipated in several major markets, according to DigiTimes, with display chip suppliers hoping its reception will boost investment in foldable devices.
Sources in the display driver industry believe the iPhone Duo could give other smartphone makers greater confidence in foldables, expanding the market for OLED touch and...
Apple's efforts to cut supply chain emissions face persistent challenges among printed circuit board manufacturers, where demand for more advanced components is increasing energy consumption, according to DigiTimes.
The report says requirements from Apple and Google are prompting suppliers to publish sustainability reports, buy more renewable electricity, and work with their own suppliers to ...