Reports from the Apple’s upstream supply chain indicate that the shortage in iPad Mini with Retina display, if any during the current quarter, can be attributed primarily to Sharp as it is not able to produce display panels in enough numbers.
According to unnamed sources cited by DigiTimes Sharp is not able produce enough Retina display panels based on its Oxide TFT process. According to the report Sharp is responsible for around 40 percent of the Retina display panels whereas LG Display is responsible for 60 percent of the panels. LG uses a-Si process and there seems to be no yield issues with LGD.
Same sentiments were reflected in Tim Cooks statement during the earnings call as he revealed that “It’s unclear whether we’ll have enough for the quarter or not.”
It seems that earlier reports which indicated a possible shortage in the iPad Mini with Retina are indeed proving to be accurate and chances are the Apple may not be able to meet with demands if the 7.9-inch tablet with Retina proves to be a huge success. Apple hasn’t given a specific date for the public availability of the iPad Mini with Retina and has updated the product page on its website stating that the product will not be available until “later in November.”
According to IHS iSuppli the supply of the iPad Mini Retina will be severely constrained and there will be no meaningful volumes till first quarter of 2014 notes CNET.
