While analysts are keeping their fingers crossed for about six million iPad sales throughout 2010, Apple is shopping for more than twice that many screens for the upcoming device, according to a report by the “Korean Times.”
The report — as noted by “Geek.com” (http://www.geek.com/articles/mobile/apple-thinks-big-orders-13-million-ipad-screens-20100322/), says Samsung has landed a big order from Apple that will see the Korean consumer electronics conglomerate supply the company with three million IPS displays for the iPad. Industry sources estimated the deal at around US$240 million, putting the cost of the iPad’s 9.7-inch IPS display at around $80 per unit, five times more than a 3.5-inch display on the iPhone 3GS.
The iPad — now available for pre-order — is due to hit the stores April 3. At least the Wi-Fi only versions will; the Wi-Fi + 3G model will hit US store sleeves in late April. In addition, all models of iPad will be available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland and the UK in late April.
The Wi-Fi iPad sells for a suggested retail price of US$499 for 16GB, $599 for 32GB, $699 for 64GB models. The Wi-Fi + 3G models will be available in late April for a suggested retail price of $629 for 16GB, $729 for 32GB and $829 for 64GB. iPad will be sold in the US through the Apple Store, Apple’s retail stores and select Apple Authorized Resellers.