iPad Mini 2 delayed, claims report

iPad Mini 2 delayed, claims report
Shipments of the second-generation iPad Mini will trail those of a new version of the 9.7-inch iPad by months, according to an Asia-based publication. Volume production of the fifth-generation iPad will begin in the July-August time frame, while volume production for the iPad Mini 2 may be pushed back to November -- so claims Taiwan-based DigiTimes in a Monday report, citing "supply chain" sources.Related storiesRetina iPad Mini display could go into production soonThe delay is attributed to either mass-production problems or a deliberate decision by Apple to postpone introduction of the Mini 2.The latter reason is based on "market watchers" belief that the Mini 2 could hurt iPad 5 sales, DigiTimes said.In other words, Apple wants to focus solely on the launch of the iPad 5 first. As reported previously, the iPad 5 will adopt a slim side bezel design and be 20 to 30 percent lighter than the iPad 4, DigiTimes said. Shipments of the fifth-generation iPad should total about 8 million units in the third quarter, according to the report. NPD DisplaySearch said in May that production of the Retina displays for the Mini 2 should begin by July with production of the tablet itself in the third quarter.