iPad 2 to feature cameras on front and rear

HONG KONG/TAIPEI: Component suppliers for Apple Inc's iPad are gearing up for a new round of production in the first quarter, sources said on Friday, with one saying the product, known as iPad 2, will be a revamp of the popular tablet computer including front- and back-mounted cameras.

Touchscreen chip designer Wintek Corp, battery maker Simplo Technology Co Ltd and AVY Precision, an unlisted maker of covers for electronic products, are among suppliers for the next batch of iPads, three people familiar with the situation said.

Two of the sources could only confirm that they were ramping up for a new round of production in the first quarter for components previously supplied for the original iPad. While a third said the ramp-up was for a new iPad that would feature cameras on the front and rear.

It was reported that the new iPad tablet will start shipping by the end of February.

An Apple spokeswoman declined to comment.

Camera module makers Genius Electronic Optical Co Ltd and Largan Precision Co Ltd were also starting new supply deals with Apple, two sources said, but neither could confirm for which product the modules were intended.

Component makers generally do not know what a finished product will look like or what software it will run because they are only responsible for manufacturing one part of before passing it on for assembly.