Apple iPad 3 delayed owing to display sourcing problems

Apple has shelved plans to launch the iPad 3 at the end of 2011, after reported problems sourcing panels for the high-resolution display.



The iPad 3 is expected to ship with a 9.7in screen, featuring an improved resolution of 2,048x1,536.

However, component suppliers including Samsung and LG are having trouble meeting Apple's production demands, according to Digitimes.

Meanwhile, there are suggestions that Apple may buy Japanese manufacturer Sharp in an attempt to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities.

Francisco Jeronimo, research manager for European mobile devices at IDC, told V3 that component shortages are unlikely to be the only reason for the iPad 3 delay.

"Based on Apple's historical performance, it would not make sense to release the iPad 3 this year," he said.

"The only reasons why Apple would launch a third-generation tablet this year would be to correct a technical problem in the iPad 2, or to facilitate a lower price for the current tablet to make it more competitive against Android devices."

Jeronimo added that the purchase of Sharp would be a viable move for Apple.

"Buying Sharp would increase Apple's manufacturing capabilities and strengthen the firm's LCD patent portfolio," he said.

"Sharp owns a lot of important patents as it bought Pioneer, and Apple could use these as it looks to bridge the gap between the mobile and living room."

Apple is locked in a legal battle with Samsung, which it accuses of copying the iPad 2. Apple won a preliminary injunction to stop Samsung from selling its Galaxy Tab 10.1 device across Europe, but this ruling has since been overturned by German court.