14 DAY TRIAL // Apple is reportedly certifying iPad 3 components from a number of Taiwan-based manufacturers with a likely unveiling of the final product set for early 2012.
Industry sources quoted by trade publication DigiTimes say manufacturers have confirmed that Apple has begun certifying components for its third generation tablet computer.
Many of these Taiwan-based manufacturers are “actively participating.” In other words, everyone is rushing to obtain certification from Apple.
Those responsible with producing the backlight modules and light bars have already received certification from Cupertino, according to the report.
However, the sources say Apple is yet to provide its certification for display panels.
Since the iPad is all about the display, this is a very important factor in Apple’s decision to source what components from whom.
The report digs up an old rumor saying Apple’s next tablet will boast an AMOLED display, but the sources said this was “unlikely to happen.” The iPad 3 will allegedly use LCD panels from Samsung and LG Display.
Finally, component makers seem confident that the launch of iPad 3 should occur in 2012.
However, many have speculated that Apple might take the industry by storm again this year by introducing a third iPad during the Fall period.
In a blog post dated 9 February, 2011, John Gruber, of the Daring Fireball proposed a potential summer release for the HP TouchPad adding that, "If my theory is right, they're not only going to be months behind the iPad 2, but if they slip until late summer, they might bump up against the release of the iPad 3."
Gruber is one of the most connected pundits and has often issued accurate prognostications regarding Apple’s plans.
Although Apple clearly has the market secured with the iPad 2 for now, we wouldn’t rule out an iPad 3 announcement at Apple’s annual iPod event this Autumn.