iPad 3 beginning assembly for March launch
updated 09:35 am EST, Wed January 11, 2012
Sources back minimal cosmetic differences
Two manufacturers in the Apple supply chain, Foxconn and Pegatron, have been asked to start assembling next-generation iPads for launch in early March, says Macotakara. The Japanese site claims to have learned the information from Chinese sources, who add that the hardware should look almost identical to the iPad 2. This includes button arrangements, the dock connector, and the positioning of the front- and rear-facing cameras.
iPad 2 Smart Covers will allegedly work with the iPad 3 despite the new tablet's magnets being in a different spot. Another difference mentioned by the sources is a slight increase in thickness, which may interfere with using older form-fitting cases. Sharp is said to be providing display panels with 2048x1536 resolution.
The new report suggests that Pegatron will be responsible for up to 85 percent of iPad 3 assembly, while Foxconn will handle the last 15 percent. That could support claims of Apple rearranging iPad production. The description of the next-gen tablet also matches ones such as a sighting at CES, possibly lending credibility to both accounts.
