Ibiden, Tripod Technology and TTM Technologies have been named as the initial PCB suppliers for a second-generation iPad, which is expected to be launched in the first quarter of 2011, reports “DigiTimes” (http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20101118PD211.html). Four more suppliers will be added to the list in February 2011, when shipments of the new iPads ramp up, the article — quoting “industry sources” — adds.
The sources said Ibiden, Tripod and TTM have received certification from Apple, and will start shipping any-layer HDI boards for the “iPad 2” in small quantities in December. The updated tablet is will reportedly have two cameras similar to the iPhone 4.
Whats more, “AppleInsider” (http://www.appleinsider.com) says that the 3G model of Apple’s next-gen iPad will be a “world mode” device with both GSM and CDMA radios, allowing Apple to sell one model for integrated wireless access. Analyst Brian Blair from Wedge Partners said in a note to investors that Apple is developing a new iPad with a Qualcomm multimode CDMA-GSM chips built in. In the U.S., such a chip would allow the iPad to run on both AT&T and Verizon networks, which use different wireless technology.
