Apple still expanding list of display vendors

Several sources in Apple's supply chain in Taiwan have cast doubt on rumors surrounding a seven-inch iPad, as the display vendors have yet to receive inquiries or orders from Apple for seven-inch touchscreen panels, according to a DigiTimes report.

Rumors of a seven-inch iPad have circulated since before the 9.7-inch model was formally introduced. Unconfirmed reports have suggested that Apple developed a seven-inch variant alongside the current models, however CEO Steve Jobs recently argued that it would be "meaningless" to move down to the smaller size because of usability issues.

Despite the disagreement over the existence of a smaller iPad, the recent report suggests Apple has added two display vendors to the list of suppliers for the next iPad. The companies are expecting production volume of approximately six million units per moth, an increase of 50 percent over the current production numbers. The shipments are said to begin in January or February, following the introduction of a new model.

by MacNN Staff