iPhone, iPad demand poses drain on digital camera suppliers
updated 10:20 am EDT, Tue May 3, 2011
Japanese quake among other blamed factors
Intense demand for iPhones and iPads could affect the results of several major digital camera suppliers, say sources described by DigiTimes as with "upstream players." In particular the report suggests that companies like Altek, Foxconn, Ability Enterprise and Asia Optical may see shipments fall lower than forecast for the current quarter because of a shortage of small-sized panels, triggered by Apple. Foxconn is notably Apple's primary manufacturing partner.
Another factor said to be damaging digital camera production is the Japanese earthquake and tsunami which hit on March 11th. CCD image sensor supplies have reportedly turned unstable, and could hamper production for several weeks more. Components could recover later this month or in June, but the panel shortages caused by Apple are expected to persist for some time.
The company has become one of the most demanding clients for electronics in the world. In addition to cameras, flash memory and even sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes are being affected by aggressive Apple production plans. The situation may only become worse if and when devices like the iPhone 5 and a fifth-generation iPod touch begin rolling out later in 2011.
