Even though the current iPad is only a few months old, rumors of a new model have been gathering pace recently. There has been talk of an iPad plus with a slight improvement on the current model, but today we have new reports suggesting an iPad 3 release with a high-res display in time for Christmas 2011.
Now it may seem strange or annoying for some that Apple could bring out a new device so soon after the iPad 2 was launched. But the company is getting stronger competition in the tablet market now, and despite selling bucket loads of their tablet PC won’t want to rest on their laurels. This has been the downfall of certain companies in the past who may have a successful product, but don’t quickly evolve.
The Korea Times is reporting that Apple are currently testing new LCD screens from Samsung and LG. The companies are reported to be close to landing massive orders from Apple according to industry sources. It is thought though that Apple are looking to lower its dependence on Samsung for a variety of components, whether this is down to the ongoing legal battles between the two companies is another matter.
In one of its labs in China Apple is reported to be testing screens from both companies, who were asked to manufacture displays with better picture quality and density. These tests are thought to be completed sometime during the third quarter, and could mean a new device may be ready in time for the holiday season.
Sources have claimed that the iPad 3 will have a display that supports quad extended graphics, and have a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels to give high definition viewing. Apple don’t seem to be interested in Samsung’s OLED technology, as it is claimed they have a shorter shelf life and can easily be contaminated.
OLEDs have often been thought as the next big thing display wise, but currently the majority of displays available are on the small side and further R&D is needed in the technology. But if Samsung and LG are successful and sign deals with Apple, they will continue to be the biggest suppliers to Apple of displays.
In the past Apple has used vast amounts of processors from Samsung, but are currently testing a new chip from TSMC. The company is thought to be able to manufacture huge amounts of their components which will satisfy Apple when trying to get new devices to its customers.
Apple seems to have caught up with demand with the current iPad 2, as shipping times on the Apple Store is down to 1-3 days. News of a new iPad so soon after the last version was released may disappoint some people, but this seems the way technology is going these days.
Have you got an iPad 2? Will you be annoyed if a new version comes out so soon?
*Identifying Monetised Links - outgoing links that we monetise are marked with an '*' symbol.
