13-inch MacBook Pro allegedly slowed by Retina yields
updated 12:58 pm EDT, Thu October 11, 2012
Display issues may also be hurting iPad mini rollout
Trouble with manufacturing Retina displays is hampering the introduction of a new 13-inch MacBook Pro, claims DigiTimes. Shipments of the computer are said to have been slated for September, but "weak yields" of Retina screens allegedly pushed them into October. Production problems are also reportedly affecting two other products, namely a new iMac and a 7.85-inch iPad, more commonly nicknamed the iPad mini. Like the 13-inch Pro, delays pushed shipments a month over into October.
The Mini is "suffering low yields for components such as the display and chassis," DigiTimes suggests. The publication adds that while the tablet uses a chassis with material similar to the 9.7-inch iPad it has a different "design and tactile feel," without going into any more detail.
Although DigiTimes has a mixed track record, Retina displays have been widely reported as a major production obstacle for Apple since the iPhone 4. Issues have only recently been sorted out for the iPhone 5, which may allow Apple to finally catch up with demand.
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I hate to create rumors, but with global PC sales down and ongoing production of the 15" Retina screen from LG and Samsung, I don't see how hard it could be to produce the smaller 13" display.
Unless the new MacBook Pro is using a new low-power Retina IGZO display from Sharp. The new IGZO technology might have caused yield issues for Sharp. If the IGZO display is used, the 13" MacBook Pro could have a much smaller battery and a very low profile (similar to the MacBook Air). Of course, I am just speculating.