iPad 5 Thin Bezel (artist concept)
While I’m not a complete fan of DigiTimes accuracy in predicting future Apple products, they do have a very good handle on Apple supply chain partners. But unlike analysts, there’s no hidden agenda backed by a financial broker (that I’m aware), they’re simply trying to sell page visits to their website. In any case, this is why I’m torn whether DidiTimes should be mentioned in the AppleInvestor Analyst Watch, they fall between the cracks.
DigiTimes – Supply side Reporter
But this is a tasty bit of news if true, the 5th generation iPad won’t start production until this summer, which means it won’t be available for sale until late fall, or just in time for Christmas. Sources speculate the new design will have an ultra-thin bezel. This new model could set the design form for future iPad models.
Volume production of the fifth-generation 9.7-inch iPad will kick off in July-August 2013, according to sources with Taiwan-based supply chain makers. Yield rates for key components, especially touch panels, will be a major concern for smooth production.
The sources pointed out that the new iPad will be thinner and lighter than the fourth-generation one and will adopt a slim bezel design, similar to that of the iPad mini.
The new iPad’s display is expected to be supplied by LG Display and Sharp, while the touch panel assembly will be conducted by TPK and the ITO thin film supplied by Nitto Denko and Teijin, the sources added.
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