Josh OngReuters reported Friday that sources claim the next-gen iPad will sport dual cameras, and could begin production as early as the first quarter of 2011.
The report further confirms the likelihood of a FaceTime-capable iPad, as reported by AppleInsider in September. Additionally, on Thursday, new iPad cases were spotted with cutouts for a rear-facing camera and space for what could be an SD card slot.
Reuters' sources pegged touchscreen chip designer Wintek Corp, battery maker Simplo Technology and AVY Precision, "an unlisted maker of covers for electronic products," as suppliers for the next batch of iPads.
Camera component suppliers Genius Electronic Optical Co and Largan Precision Co were also reportedly starting new "supply deals" with Apple, though sources were unable to confirm for which products.
The report lined up with what RBS analyst Steven Tseng has been hearing. "It makes sense for these suppliers to begin delivering their goods in February," he said. "I think Steve Jobs will announce the new product in January, and we should see the new product hitting shops in about April."
Other reports from sources close to Apple's Asian-based component suppliers have also predicted a Q1 2011 production date for the next-gen iPad. Earlier this week, Taiwan industry publication DigiTimes reported that Foxconn will begin shipping the iPad 2 within the next 100 days. The publication also released a similar report naming potential suppliers for the next iPad in November.
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27 Comments
Apple will introduce iPad 2 2-3 weeks before release just like the iPhone and iPods in the past. If it's scheduled to be released March-April I highly doubt Apple will introduce it that too far out to hurt the current iPad's sales even though Apple is expected to slow down production of the current iPad in Q1. iPad 2 is a brand new model but the iPad line isn't a brand new product anymore.
Anyone who thinks Apple Will show off the iPad 2 three months ahead of launch should not be trusted.
Yet another clueless "analyst". Do these guys get paid to come up with this drivel?
So Jobs will announce in January, but it won't go on sale until April? Chances of that happening are ZERO, and any knucklehead (apparently other than this one) knows it. It would be suicide for the current iPad to announce a new one with additional features months before it's available. Sales of the current model would tank.
I'd love to hear a few of this joker's stock picks. I'd play them the opposite of whatever his crystal ball tells him. AI shouldn't even print crap like this.. though it does generate traffic and dozens of comments, so perhaps that's all they care about.
I think most of us think there's going to be a camera(s) on the next iPad. Analysts as usually don't have a clue about features or time frame.
Rumors. garbage, worthless hearsay.................Thats all these rumors add up too. there's no substantiation to any of this.
Cameras would be a given in an upcoming new IPAD. However be assured that the new IPAD will pack something really good in it.