AU Optronics Developing Retina Display for Second-Generation iPad Mini?

SlashGear reports on an article [Google translation] from Chinese site DoNews claiming that Apple's iPad mini display partner AU Optronics has a Retina-resolution display in the pipeline for the next generation of the device, which is expected to be launched next year. There has been considerable discussion about how quickly Apple might be able to move to a Retina display in the device, and today's report suggests that Apple may not have to wait several generations to make the jump as it did with its other iOS devices.

ipad mini side
A separate report from MENAFN claims that AU Optronics will be adopting indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) and Gate IC on array (GOA) technologies in order to reach the Retina resolution in a thin design required for the iPad mini.

It is said that ultrahigh resolution can not be developed without the technology of indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), and the technology of Gate IC on array (GOA) is also indispensable since the next-generation iPad Mini will have an ultra-narrow frame. The technology of GOA helps save the room of IC on the rim and narrow the frame of the screen to the largest extent.

Speaking of the progress of the development of iPad Mini, AUO claimed that it had solved the problem of yield and there would be no light leak as existed before. The company would ship the products in large scale in the fourth quarter.

One major issue with both of the reports is confusion over the pixel density on these panels. Both reports claim that the Retina-level iPad mini display would carry a density of 497 pixels per inch (ppi), whereas such a display would actually have the same 326 ppi seen on the last several generations of the iPhone. MENAFN also misstates the density of the full-size iPad's display as 326 ppi, while DoNews correctly lists it as 264 ppi.

Related Roundup: iPad mini
Buyer's Guide: iPad Mini (Buy Now)
Related Forum: iPad

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Top Rated Comments

AdonisSMU Avatar
163 months ago
Well it's about time the iPad mini get the retina display. Seriously, why did Apple release the mini without it?

Is that a serious question?
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
WiiDSmoker Avatar
163 months ago
Either way; I'm waiting for the Retina Mini. :D
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
MacVault Avatar
163 months ago
Well it's about time the iPad mini get the retina display. Seriously, why did Apple release the mini without it?
Score: 11 Votes (Like | Disagree)
rwilliams Avatar
163 months ago
This is why I wouldn't waste my money on the 1st generation Mini. You know that a Retina version is on the way.
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
beemo Avatar
163 months ago
now the price makes more sense

The $329 price makes more sense now, as they will inevitably say "new iPad mini with retina display at the same amazing price". They wouldn't want to raise the cost from say $249, or sell at cost because of the pricier display.

I'm really happy with my iPad 3, but it does feel too big sometimes and a bother to bring places. A retina iPad mini would make me consider switching!
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
AdonisSMU Avatar
163 months ago
They leak it anyway because the general public doesnt follow this stuff and the Apple fans are going to buy it regardless.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)