Supply Checks Say No 7-inch iPad

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Despite ongoing rumors that Apple is planning on releasing a 7-inch version of its popular iPad, parts suppliers in Taiwan claim the company hasn’t ordered any touch panels to fit such a device. Currently, Apple’s multimedia tablet is available only with a 9.7-inch multitouch display.

While supply chain sources claim there isn’t a 7-inch iPad in the works, they also said that Apple has signed deals with two more touch panel suppliers for the second generation iPad, according to DigiTimes. Apparently Chimei Innolux and Cando are both on board to start delivering 9.7-inch touch panels to Apple in January or February.

Apple sticking with 9.7-inch iPad

The second generation iPad is expected to ship around April 2011, although Apple hasn’t made any announcement or offered any confirmation to the rumored launch window. Insider sources and analysts expect the next iPad model will be thinner, offer longer battery life, and include a front-facing FaceTime-compatible camera.

Since Apple isn’t confirming the rumors coming out of Taiwan, the 7-inch iPad report from DigiTimes should be taken with a grain of salt. Considering Apple’s negative stance on a smaller iPad screen, however, it seems likely that supply chain reports claiming Apple hasn’t ordered any smaller displays could be right.

Jeff Gamet

Jeff Gamet

Jeff is the Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and co-host of the Apple Context Machine podcast. He is the author of "The Designer's Guide to Mac OS X" from Peachpit Press, and writes for several design-related publications. Jeff has presented at events such as Macworld Expo, the RSA Conference, and the Mac Computer Expo. In all his spare time, he also co-hosts the We Have Communicators podcast, and makes guest appearances on several other podcasts, too. Jeff dreams in HD.

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1 Comments

aneexiaoa@gmail.com

great! really?
Honestly speaking, The most important reazon i chose to Ipad is that the screen size is very comfortable, which can make me enjoying movies on my ipad, not so, i also order a Aneesoft dvd to ipad converter and Netflix app, both all can make my “home theater” more perfect!B)
but if Apple reduce the ipad size to 7-inch, I I would rather use my cell phone whtch movie.

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