Apple to Utilize Anti-Reflective Glass in Next-Generation iMac?

In a roundup of touch panel supplier news, Digitimes reports that G-Tech Optoelectronics is not only ramping up production of cover glass for the new iPad but is also working with Apple on anti-reflective glass for the next-generation iMac. The iMac is due for an update in the near future as Intel's Ivy Bridge processors become available later this month.

G-Tech is ramping up its production capacity of cover glass from 1.8 million units a month currently to three million units in 2012 as the company is likely to take up 25-30% of total cover glass orders for Apple's iPads in the year, according to an industry estimate.

G-Tech is also expected to supply AR (anti-reflective) glass solutions for Apple's all-in-one (AIO) PCs with the new products to also serve as a growth driver for G-Tech, indicated industry sources.

Apple's iMac has utilized a glass front for a number of years, leading to some user complaints due to the reflectivity interfering with usability in bright environments. An anti-reflective glass would likely help alleviate some of these complaints.

Apple utilizes a similar glossy display glass standard on the MacBook Pro, but offers a build-to-order option of an antiglare matte display on 15-inch and 17-inch models.