Report: Apple to launch Retina Display iPad in early 2012

Apple is preparing to launch an iPad with a high resolution display in early 2012, according to a new report. Citing people familiar with the situation, the Wall Street Journal reports that Apple is currently working with component suppliers and its assembler in Asia for trial production of the next-generation tablet, and has already ordered key components such as display panels and chips. The report claims that the next-generation iPad is expected to boast a 2048 x 1536 display, which has already shipped in small quantities for sampling. Such a display would likely qualify as a “Retina Display” in Apple’s eyes. “Suppliers will ramp up production and try to improve the yield rate for the new iPad in the fourth quarter before its official launch in early 2012,” said a person at one component supplier, which has already received orders for parts for roughly 1.5 million next-generation iPads in the fourth quarter.