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.