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Apple Suppliers 'Gearing Up for Mass Production' of Updated iPad and AirPods

Wednesday March 13, 2019 10:24 pm PDT by Eric Slivka
Companies in Apple's supply chain are reportedly "gearing up for mass production" of updated iPad and AirPods models, according to Taiwanese site DigiTimes.

Flexible PCB firms Flexium Interconnect and Zhen Ding Technology are gearing up for mass production for Apple's next-generation iPad devices, while Compeq Manufacturing and Unitech PCB supply rigid-flex boards for the forthcoming AirPods, according to industry sources.
The report says that both updates are expected to come at Apple's March 25 event, although reliable sources have indicated the event will focus on Apple's upcoming news and video services with no hardware announcements planned.

Minor hardware updates could come silently alongside the event or via press release around the same time, as DigiTimes's insights via the supply chain are likely limited to production timing rather than event specifics.

Hints of an updated low-cost iPad have been growing, with new iPad models appearing in a regulatory database back in January. Rumors have suggested the entry-level iPad could see its display grow from 9.7 inches to around 10.2 inches thanks to slimmer bezels, but we're not expecting to see Face ID and removal of the home button with this update.

As for AirPods, we've been hearing about an imminent update for many months now, with Apple's plans seemingly delayed as the company continues work on its AirPower charging mat. Updated AirPods would include a wireless charging case to work with the AirPower mat, as well as other upgrades including "Hey Siri" support and possibly new health monitoring features, a "grippy" texture, and maybe even a new black color option.

Related Roundups: iPad, AirPods 2
Tags: digitimes.com, AirPods Guide
Buyer's Guide: iPad (Don't Buy), AirPods (Buy Now)
[ 121 comments ]


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DrJohnnyN
2 weeks ago
AirPods need little improvement. It’s a great product.
Rating: 16 Votes
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WilliamG
2 weeks ago

AirPods need little improvement. It’s a great product.


Their startup connectivity reliability and talk-time battery life could absolutely be improved. And less slippery would be great. Aside from that I generally agree.
Rating: 16 Votes
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Relentless Power
2 weeks ago

AirPods need little improvement.


With this mindset, Apple would never be better. The AirPods do need improvement in Various areas, even though they are a great product.

1.) Siri could be improved with expanded features and capabilities.

2.) Water resistance rating should be added.

3.) Noise isolation is another consideration.

4.) Audio improvements

5.) Battery enhancements
Rating: 10 Votes
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sundog925
2 weeks ago
IM DOWN FOR BLACK AIRPODS.

take my mf' money....
Rating: 10 Votes
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JPack
2 weeks ago
It makes sense Apple would launch a new media consumption device (iPad) and accessory (AirPods) at their show time event.
Rating: 9 Votes
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Solver
2 weeks ago
I’d like the option to find my AirPods in a closed case.
Rating: 8 Votes
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farewelwilliams
2 weeks ago

AirPods need little improvement. It’s a great product.

I wish checking the case battery percentage was a bit more reliable. Sometimes I need to flip it open a couple of times or check the battery widget manually.
Rating: 8 Votes
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MEJHarrison
2 weeks ago
I’ve been thinking about trying some AirPods. This might be the time.
Rating: 7 Votes
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apolloa
2 weeks ago
Currently as it stands, these new AirPods and new iPad mini will be the most exciting Apple hardware launches of the year.
Will want to see what they do with the new Mini.
Rating: 6 Votes
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Lone Deranger
2 weeks ago
AirPods need size/fit options more than it needs alternate colours. Let's hope Apple understands this.
Rating: 5 Votes

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