iPads 2011: Three Models, 65 Million In Stock

More iPads, Less Smudges

It doesn't look like the expected influx of computer tablets is going to slow down the success and dominance of APPLE's iPAD. MACOBSERVER.COM reports that current parts order estimates out of TAIWAN indicate APPLE will to build upwards of 65 million iPADS in 2011. The projection is based on supply channel data from unnamed sources, according to DIGITIMES, and is substantially higher than market estimates between 45 and 48 million iPADS for next year.

Apparently LG DISPLAY will build about 35 million iPad touch panels for Apple during 2011, and both SAMSUNG and CHIMEI INNOLUX will receive orders for 15 million more panels.

Three New Models, No Smudge, Less Reflection

However many new iPADS are sold next year, the next generation of them will feature distinct improvements, such as a less reflective screen, smudge-free screen. Sources also told DIGITIMES that three different versions of the new iPAD are in development and that APPLE plans to release all three this spring. One will be Wi-FI only, another will feature both Wi-Fi and UTMS capability (the 3G technology that AT&T and T-MOBILE carry), and a third will include CDMA (the 3G technology VERIZON and SPRINT use) access in addition to Wi-Fi.

If this is true, it could confirm earlier rumors about the iPAD 2 being available on various networks. The report also estimated a launch sometime in MARCH or APRIL 2011, later than the original speculation of FEBRUARY.

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