These rumours of a new, smaller and cheaper iPad are gathering momentum - and now we're even hearing details of who is going to be supplying the screens.
According to Taiwan's Liberty Times (via 9to5 Mac), LG and AU Optronics have been certified to supply an LCD panel for the device, measuring 7.85-inches. Shipping has been set for the second half of this year.
Now that technically means that the iPad Mini (which we assume it'll be called) could be landing any time after the end of next week. However, the wider assumption is that the unit will be launched in October at the same time, we expect, as the iPhone 5.
More info from Taiwain: the paper reckons 6 million LCDs will be used and TPK Holdings will make around 4 million backlit modules with the remaining 2 million sourced from Chemi Innoluz. Nissha Printing will be the sole provider of the touch film sensor.
If true, it means that the Kindle Fire has some serious competition in the smaller tablet arena and that Apple is definitely moving into an area Steve Jobs had said it wanted nothing to do with. No details have been released yet (and probably won't for a good while) but expect it to be sold at the bargain basement price of around £200.
Perfect for Christmas!
