Mikey Campbell
Ahead of an expected special event in September, Apple suppliers are supposedly ramping up manufacturing of both 9.7-inch and 7.9-inch iPad models, with the larger version expected to debut as soon as this quarter.
Citing sources familiar with Apple's supply chain, Bloomberg reports Apple's partner suppliers in Asia have started mass production of the next-generation 9.7-inch iPad, while a new iPad mini version enters early stages of assembly.
The larger version, thought to be a follow-up to Apple's iPad Air, should see launch by the end of the third quarter or early fourth quarter, sources said. Initial stock may be constrained, however, due to manufacturing issues related to the application of an anti-reflective screen coating, a new feature for Apple's tablet lineup. Previously, iOS device screen treatments have been limited to oleophobic, or fingerprint-resistant, coatings.
As for the iPad mini, not much was offered in the way of new information aside from claims that the tablet is also entering production and should hit store shelves by the end of the year.
The next-gen iPads are expected to be a revision of current hardware, with the most notable change being the inclusion of Apple's Touch ID fingerprint sensor. Aside from the reported anti-refelective coating, the iPad should get the usual performance upgrades and minor design tweaks consistent with an annual product refresh.
Most recently, photos of a "leaked" chassis supposedly bound for the "iPad Air 2" showed off recessed volume control buttons and a revamped speaker grille layout.
While the exact launch dates are unknown, Apple is rumored to be planning a special media event for Sept. 9, which is expected to focus on the next iPhone.
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35 Comments
Starting production right now would be good for a September launch. I'm a bit excited and are hoping that Apple upgrades the device properly to convince me to upgrade. As it is even my iPad 3 is running better with iOS 8.
Although I'm purchasing them myself, it seems Christmas is coming early what with a new iPad Air to replace original iPad 3G and iPhone 6, to replace, well, nothing - this will be my first iPhone, and both with iOS 8 "under the tree" plus Yosemite for my iMac to enjoy 'Continuity'. What a time it is to be an Apple Fan!
It really is crazy that Apple has no non-glossy products in their entire lineup. All of the iOS devices are completely unusable in bright sunlight. I tried to use my iPhone as a bike computer with the Stava app. The app is great, but I cannot see the screen of the phone mounted on the handlebars if there's any appreciable level of sunshine. I get it that some people like the glossy screens, but non-glossy ones should at least be a BTO option. The thing I worry about is this "anti-reflective coating". Coatings wear off, often in uneven ways that make the device look worn out and ratty. Make a screen that isn't glossy to begin with.
So does Apple think iPad mini owners don't read?
[quote name="wizard69" url="/t/181781/apple-suppliers-reportedly-start-production-of-next-gen-ipad-air-with-anti-reflective-coating#post_2577182"]Starting production right now would be good for a September launch. I'm a bit excited and are hoping that Apple upgrades the device properly to convince me to upgrade. As it is even my iPad 3 is running better with iOS 8.[/quote]Hardly, iPhone production started in June/July, and if I'm correct it is 90% of production threw September so it could easily be august.