Apple is set to launch upgraded MacBook Pro and iMac models in the first half of 2011, according to a “DigiTimes” report (http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20101215PD223.html), quoting “sources from upstream component makers.” But don’t look for a 7-inch iPad.
The sources told “DigiTimes” that Apple plans to launch at least four upgraded MacBook Pros, as well as an iMac that features a new panel size and a price point for the mainstream market. No details are given on the latter, but, per “DigiTimes,” the upgraded MacBook Pro notebooks will feature a slight change in chassis design and an upgrade to the new Mac OS X Lion operating system, which should help Apple’s notebook shipments grow 30-40% on year in 2011. (Note that Lion isn’t expected to ship before summer.)
Additionally, “Digitimes” reports (http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20101215PD214.html) that pple has reportedly added two additional touch panel makers, Chimei Innolux and Cando, to its touch panel supplier list for the iPad 2 in addition to current suppliers Wintek, Sintek Photronics and TPK Touch Solutions due to expanding market for the tablet computers.
Despite market that Apple will launch a 7-inch iPad as well as new iPhones, sources in Apple’s supply chain in Taiwan “claimed that they have not heard anything about orders for 7-inch touch panels,” says “DigiTimes.”