Screen problem could delay iPad 3

With Apple finally catching up with demand for the iPad 2 earlier this month, over four months after the device’s March release, attention has now switched to when the next model could be hitting the market.

Back when the iPad 2 launched, Cult of Mac reported comments from an Apple insider suggesting the iPad 2 was a relatively inconsequential update, and the iPad 3 would be the more ground-breaking device.

At the time, the staffer said the new device would be in stores by the end of the year.

Since then, rumours have circulated of a high-powered iPad 3 or even an iPad 2 Plus boasting improved screen resolution.

Now, a report on Taiwanese industry website DigiTimes has suggested Apple had been looking to launch the iPad 3 later this year but was forced to abandon its plans due to problems with manufacturing.

The report says Apple had ordered 1.5-2 million iPad 3 units for the third quarter of 2011 and 5-6 million for the fourth quarter, but has recently withdrawn those orders.

Supply partners have supposedly been unable to achieve high enough yields making the 9.7-inch, 2048x1536 pixel screens.

It could be some time, then, before Apple refreshes its ground-breaking tablet device. However, with iCloud due to launch in the next few months, as well as a probable iPhone 5, Steve Jobs’ company has no reason to relinquish its recently-acquired position as the world’s largest business any time soon.