Despite earlier reports that Sharp was the confirmed display manufacturer for the iPad 3, a new report from Korea’s Electronic Times claims that Sharp is now ‘out’ as a display supplier.
The sources cite “failure to meet Apple’s requirements” as the reason behind the decision and suggest that Samsung and LG will take over production of Apple’s next-generation tablet.
An industry source said on January 9, “LCD manufacturers started mass production and supply of LCD panels for the iPad3 late last year. Samsung Electronics’ LCD business unit was the first to start mass production, and LG Display has participated in mass production with full capacity, beginning this year.”
Sharp has competed with Samsung Electronics and LG Display over the development of display panels for the iPad3, but reportedly failed to pass Apple’s approval process for mass production.
Up until now, Sharp’s rumored involvement in the iPad 3 was supported by evidence of plans to use Sharp’s IGZO (indium gallium zinc oxide) display technology in the new iPad.
LG and Samsung don’t posess the IGZO technology and if Apple switches manufacturers, it may necessitate an overall thicker device to house the dual-bar lighting system required for a conventional HD display.