Apple tablet component suppliers named, shipping March/April

Apple is securing components for its soon-to-launch tablet device, which recent rumours suggest may make an appearance on January 26 - but already reports hint at delays until the much speculated-upon device actually ships.

A pair of overnight reports name two component suppliers for the tablet: MacRumors notes Taiwan’s Economic Daily News naming Cheng Uei Precision Industries as receiving orders for ‘connectors’ for the device, though these aren’t expected to begin shipping until Q3 2010.

Digitimes meanwhile informs that Innolux, a subsidiary of Foxconn, will supply the touch panels (said to be 10-inches) for the device. It recently emerged Apple has trademarked the names ‘iSlate’ and ‘Magic Slate’, suggesting some form of ‘slate’ could be the actual name of the product.

Wintek has also been identified as a second touch panel supplier, booked to come on stream at a later juncture.

Apple’s tablet plans have reportedly seen some delay - the company sought solutions to strengthen the glass used in the displays, as a result of which launch of the tablet was delayed until Q1 2010, Digitimes reports.

Further news: “Foxconn's optical glass processing subsidiary G-Tech Optoelectronics will provide a glass strengthening process for the device, while Taiwan-based optical film maker Wah Hong Industrial has also reportedly landed component orders.”

The tablet will be manufactured by Foxconn and is set to ship in March or April, Digitimes informs.