The iPad mini is still fresh out of the gate, but rumors are already surfacing that the second generation iPad mini will feature a Retina display. According to DoNews in China, Apple’s hardware partners are already preparing the Retina-spec display for the next iPad mini.
DoNews reports that AU Optronics, one of Apple’s suppliers of the 1024×768 panels for the current iPad mini, is expected to begin mass producing 2048×1536 resolution 7.9-inch displays by the second half of 2013, with a pixel density of 324 ppi.
Apple has been somewhat criticized for not releasing the first iPad mini with a Retina display. However, by using the same resolution of the original iPad, Apple has been able to make sure that all apps work for the smaller tablet device.
Nevertheless, rumors of Apple working on a Retina display iPad mini is no great surprise, though the technical ability to actually do so has had a few stumbles so far. AU Optronic’s breakthrough has been in adopting IGZO (indium gallium zinc oxide), according to MENAFN. This is a Sharp technology that has been used to prolong battery life without sacrificing brightness on certain devices.
AU Optronics will also reportedly use Gate IC array (GOA), which will allow for a thinner frame around the outside of the display. Apple is also said to be addressing the yield issues around the current iPad mini display, eliminating the light leakage issue that has been said to have constrained supplies.
Image Credit: Apple
