Apple has reportedly added Sharp to its manufacturers of iPad 3 display panels, a report from The Wall Street Journal reveals.

Citing unnamed “people familiar with the situation”, the Journal said that its sources told them of the development on Thursday.

Essentially, the news confirms two recent reports about the iPad 3 about Apple’s suppliers for the display panel of its next-generation tablet.

Two days ago, CNet reported based on an interview with DisplaySearch analyst  Richard Shim that LG Display, Samsung and Sharp have already started production of iPad 3 display with “retina” display quality image output.

However, about a week ago, reputable Taiwanese publication DigiTimes reported that LG Display, Samsung and Sharp are already shipping displays for the iPad 3 with Apple eyeing January as the start of assembly for its tablet.

Apple has added Sharp as an LCD panel supplier for the iPad 3.

According to the Journal, “One of the people familiar with the matter said…Sharp’s Kameyama No. 2 plant in central Japan will manufacture LCD panels for the device.”

Furthermore, the publication writes that “The person also said Apple is also investing in facilities at Sharp’s panel manufacturing factories in Japan, without specifying the amount being invested”.

A report from more than three months ago said that Apple is looking to possibly invest $1 billion in a Sharp LCD manufacturing facility.

The iPad 3 is expected to be launched by late first quarter or early second quarter of next year.

Via The Wall Street Journal

About Solon Harmony Dolor

A passion for technology and journalism makes this upcoming writer very interested in social media and technology news. Fresh from finishing an English and Journalism degree from the University of the Philippines Diliman, he aims to bring interesting news to our readers .