As Japan suffers under the weight of a major tsunami and a continuing crisis with the Fukushima nuclear power plants, it's becoming clear that the ripple effects from the combined tragedies are impacting Japan's consumer electronics industry, and of course the iPad 2.
Asia Times today is reporting that the iPad 2 battery and memory are made in Japan, and with electrical shutdowns, disrupted transportation system and employees understandably staying home, supplies of these parts just aren't available.
AppleInsider quotes iSuppli as saying Apple will also have difficulty getting the iPad 2 internal compass provided by AKM Semiconductor and touch screen components likely sourced from Asahi Glass Company. At present, Apple appears to be able to build the iPad 2 for 2-3 weeks before the parts shortages impact the company.
The iPad 2 went on sale in the US on the day the tsumami struck Japan, and Apple has recently announced that initial sales of the iPad 2 in Japan will be delayed.
It may be frustrating to not have the latest and greatest piece of Apple tech, but those frustrations are small compared to the very real crises unfolding in Japan. Our hearts (and funds) go out to the people of Japan who are struggling with the many challenges they face.
[via AppleInsider]
iPad 2 supply line affected by Japan disaster originally appeared on TUAW on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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