14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has reportedly tapped Quanta Computer to manufacture its giant iPad for next year’s refresh, with sources pointing out that the 13-inch tablet will be geared towards work environments and education.
A rumor that has been picking up Steam in the past month, Apple’s 13-inch iPad seems less of a geek’s dream, and more of a reality.
Reportedly slated for unveiling sometime next year, the device will be assembled by Quanta Computer, one of Apple’s many Asian manufacturers.
According to Taiwan’s DigiTimes, which has ties to Apple’s supply chain, “Quanta Computer has reportedly landed orders for Apple's rumored large-size iPad for mass production in the second half of 2014.”
The wording in the report suggests that Quanta will be the sole assembler of the 12.9-inch iPad. The sources cited in the report believe Quanta will have a rough time churning out large amounts of these big iPads.
“Quanta is expected to encounter several challenges in terms of industrial design and assembly when making the large-size iPad. And since the size is not the mainstream specification, order volumes are expected to be limited,” the sources reportedly said.
Finally, the sources outlined that “Apple's large-size iPad will mainly target the education and enterprise markets.”
It makes sense for Apple to design a tablet with increased screen real estate for students and engineers.
The 13-inch iPad was initially regarded as another upgrade for the consumer base, which made the rumor less than credible.
However, if Apple’s next-generation 13-inch iPad is to be regarded as some sort of Pro iPad, it makes perfect sense for Apple to also manufacture this high-end version, alongside its existing iPad lines for regular consumers.