Industry sources citing upstream component makers claim Apple will release three versions of iPad 2, supporting either or a combination of Wi-Fi, UMTS and CDMA, in an effort to satisfy the supposedly huge demand for non-interrupted Internet connectivity, according to a report by Digitimes.
Mass production of the three iPad models is set to start as early as the later half of January, the paper notes, with Apple planning to ship about 500,000-530,000 units to channels in January.
Shipment ratio of Wi-Fi, UMTS and CDMA models is at 3:4:3, the aforementioned industry sources claim to have learned from upstream component makers.
Furthermore, the sources point out that Apple is putting 3G chipsets and antennas inside 60-65% of current-generation iPad models, a clear indication that “consumers prefer models that are able to connect to the Internet all the time”.
As such, Apple is allegedly aiming to strengthen its relationship with wireless operators and offer more networking solutions for iPad 2, in order to satisfy demand.
Finally, the iPad 2 will reportedly get a new, anti-smudge, anti-reflective screen, to compete against the Kindle.
Amazon’s gadget, as some will remember, has been advertised as the perfect e-reading device with a matte screen and small form factor in a comparison with bigger, glossy screen tablets like the Apple iPad.
The Digitimes report runs out of technical details, and continues with estimates on the number of iPads about to ship next year, combining figures of both the existing models, and the upcoming (unconfirmed) iPad 2.
Last week, reports emerged featuring a photograph of Taiwan pop star and car racer Jimmy Lin who had posted a picture of himself holding two devices - the current-generation iPad and an alleged, smaller-sized iPad.
An alleged Photoshop user later expressed his belief that the picture was, in fact, a fake.
Apple has shown no plans to develop a smaller iPad and, in fact, has expressed concern about a smaller form factor.
