According to Research and Markets (www.researchandmarkets.com), new iPad production shipments are projected to climb to 12-13 million units in the second quarter of 2012.

“We project total iPad production shipments to rise up to — 18 million units in 2Q12 driven by strong iPad 3 shipment growth,” according to the research group. “This also indicates that LGD and Sharp may continue to increase their iPad 3 panel supply in the next 1-3 months. In contrast, iPad 2 production forecast appears to slow down although Apple has reduced the street price during product lifecycle transition. On the other hand, total iPhone 4S shipments are expected to decrease to 18-19 million units in 2Q12 meaning that iPhone 4S demand maybe also lower than expected in the next 1-3 months.”

Research and Markets also says that:

° Total iPad shipments are expected to grow up to 18-19 million units in the second quarter of 2012 (2Q12).

° iPhone 4S demand may drop by double digits quarter-over-quarter in 2Q12.

° An iPad mini is expected to enter mass production in the fourth quarter of 2012.