Apple part suppliers: iPad 3 not in 2011 pipeline

.

Digitimes reports that although rumors have claimed that Apple is preparing an iPad 3 for launch during fall 2011, Chinese part suppliers are calling the rumors false. Apple’s part suppliers have reportedly yet to receive orders for third-generation iPad components, and Apple coupled with the fact that Apple just released the iPad 2, these suppliers feel the rumors lack merit.

Sources from touch panel makers pointed out that Apple recently released its latest tablet PC plan and is asking the panel makers to provide products that are capable to support higher image quality than the current iPad 2 and Apple may even choose AMOLED panel or panel that support Full HD standard to accomplish the plan. However, since the project is still at the initial planning stage, the actual products are unlikely to appear in 2011.

The Chinese sources state that if a new iPad does happen to arrive during fall 2011 that it will be a minimal upgrade; perhaps a new version that “supports different communication format.” We are not entirely sure what to make of this new “communication format,” but we have heard that Verizon and Apple are toying around with LTE. Perhaps a 4G/LTE iPad for the holidays?

Another common rumor has been a future iPad with an AMOLED display and the report is pouring some cold water on that as well, saying this would be a great risk due to competitors holding the major it of AMOLED part supplies.

Some sources pointed out that since AMOLED technologies are still mostly controlled by Korea-based Samsung Electronics, while Apple has competition with Samsung over tablet PC sales, if Apple is adopting AMOLED panel into its device, Apple would be facing a great risk having the key technologies being held by its competitors.