iPad 3 to Feature A6 Processor, 9.7-Inch Screen; iPhone 5 Due in Fall of 2012: Sources

According to a report by Digitime, the Cupertino-based tech giant is gearing up for the release of two versions of its next generation iPad at the iWorld (formerly known as Macworld) trade show on Jan. 26. The report, citing unnamed sources in Apple's supply chain partner firms, also said the forthcoming iPad 3 will be powered by A6 processors from Samsung.

Apparently, sources revealed that Apple continues to contract Samsung to manufacture its quad-core A6 processors, which will be used in the next-generation iPads, said the report.

The report further said the new models of the iPad will target the entry-level, mid-range and high-end market segments. They will feature 9.7-inch screens with QXGA resolution (1,536x2, 048 pixels), instead of the previously-rumored 7.85-inch screens. The device will also have dual-LED light bars to strengthen the brightness of the panels.

Sources said that while Sharp will be the major panel supplier for the iPad 3, Samsung and LG will also join the party for a part of the orders. Samsung will also be among the CMOS Image Sensor (CIS) suppliers for one of the versions of the new iPad that is expected to feature a 5 megapixel lens. For the other model, with an 8 megapixel lens, Sony will be the other CIS supplier, according to the sources.

The iPad 3 will sport batteries with a capacity as high as 14,000 milliampere-hour (mAh), for which both Simplo Technology and Dynapack International Technology have already secured orders.

What about iPhone 5?

If the above rumors turn out to be true, there is ample reason to expect an iPhone 5 powered by a powerful A6 processor. The only question is... when?

A recent report by BGR indicated that Apple's next generation iPhone will be launched in the fall of 2012, around the same time that this year's iPhone 4S launched. According to a close source, Apple is planning to use rubber or plastic as the base material for the new iPhone's case. The report added that like the iPhone 3GS bezel, the material will be used surrounding the front edge of the phone.

However, the report failed to speak about an A6 processor. According to earlier reports, the forthcoming iPhone will sport an aluminum case, like the one found on the iPad 2 and a larger display of around 4 inches.

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