Sources in the far east reported Tuesday that Apple’s 5th generation iPad will enter production sometime in July or August, contrary to previous industry suspicions that the iPad 5 would launch prior to the iPhone 5S.
Most industry analysts and supply chain sources now believe Apple will introduce the refreshed iPhone 5S sometime in June.
Apple is purportedly aiming to reduce extraneous pressure on its manufacturing and supply chains by postponing iPad production until after the iPhone 5S has reached the marketplace.
Aggressive iPhone 5S production is expected to begin this quarter.
Digitimes reported Tuesday morning that sources with Taiwan-based supply chain makers indicate that yield rates for key components, especially touch panels, “will be a major concern for smooth production.”
The sources pointed out that the new iPad will be thinner and lighter than the fourth-generation one and will adopt a slim bezel design, similar to that of the iPad mini.
Digitimes says the refreshed Pad 5’s display will likely be supplied by LG Display and Sharp.
