iPad Mini 2 And iPad 5 Rumors: Apple To Cut Samsung Components From Upcoming Tablets

Despite lawsuits and competition, Apple and Samsung share a partnership, with the latter providing components to Cupertino's tablet series.

Apple has utilized Samsung as a manufacturer for many of their devices, such as the iPad and iPad mini, but it appears Apple might severe the relationship.

According to a report by South Korea's ETNews, Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Oh-hyun Kwon stated he is not concerned about the rumors of Apple cutting or limiting their role in the tablets' production.

While meeting with the press at the Korea Electronics Association on March 20, Kwon stated, "The orders can go up and down in the course of any business - some are sensitive about the issue, but I am not worried about it."

The Korean news site noted that Apple has issued for the components needed for the fifth generation iPad and the iPad mini 2 to a few manufacturers, however, Samsung was not on the list.

Apple has utilized Samsung for constructing the device's display. LG Electronics is also a display manufacturer for Apple, but is likely to continue the partnership with Cupertino.

The report follows speculation that Apple is not rushing to release the next iPad mini. According to CNYes, Apple has not seen a drop in demand of the original iPad mini since the tablet made its debut last October. The Cupertino-based company is apparently waiting until sales slow down before launching the iPad mini 2.

The report noted that it estimates the iPad mini 2 will eventually make its debut at about the same time frame as the original iPad mini

Apple is projected to ship 55 million iPad mini units during 2013. According to NDP DisplaySearch, the iPad mini's demand is eclipsing the 9.7-inch iPad. Initially, the regular-sized iPad was to sell 60 million units compared to the iPad mini's 40 million units. NDP DisplaySearch believes the figures will reverse.

Overall, the tablet market is expected to sell 254 million units during 2013, up 94 million from the 160 million units sold in 2012.

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