Apple telling suppliers to prep for mass production of smaller iPad
Evidence of a new, smaller iPad model continues to mount, with a new report claiming Apple told its component suppliers this week to prepare for mass production of such a device.
Citing anonymous sources, The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that Apple's Asian component suppliers are preparing for mass production of the smaller iPad in September. The device is expected to have a screen size smaller than 8 inches.
Current iPad models feature a display that measure 9.7 inches diagonally. Numerous rumors this year have pointed toward a so-called "iPad mini" featuring a 7.85-inch display. According to Wednesday's report, LG Display Co. and AU Optronics Co. will be suppliers of displays for the new, smaller iPad. The report said movement in the supply chain has suggested that the launch of a smaller iPad "appears near."
