The next generation of the iPad mini is long expected to have Retina Display, but a report states the component may be putting a strain for Apple.
According to a research note by Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI Securities, the iPad mini 2 will likely not go into mass production before October. Kuo believes the reason for the delay will be production issues in trying to insert as many pixels into the 7.9-inch display in order to classify it as Retina Display.
In exchange for the delay, the KGI Securities analyst noted a low-cost iPad mini may launch sooner than expected. The purpose for the more affordable iPad mini is to help boost sales and continue to fend off competitors. The price for the alleged low-cost iPad mini, according to Kuo, maybe between $199 and $249.
A possible solution to provide the Retina Display onto the iPad mini 2 is to remove the rear-facing camera, utilizing the A5 processor, and reducing the internal storage to 8GB, says Kuo.
As for the regular-sized iPad, the 9.7-inch iPad 5 is still planned to have a frame design similar to the iPad mini.
"We think Apple will stay competitive in the tablet market over the long term as it releases new and exciting products," said Kuo. "But with product launches pushed back and competition getting fiercer, Apple and the iPad supply chain will have to wait until (the fourth quarter of calendar 2013) for significant growth."
For more on the iPad mini 2, click here.
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