iPad 2 Supplies To Be Scarce Thanks To Super-Skinny Screen?

Apple's iPad 2 isn't expected to see delays in-between announcement tomorrow and going on sale, but launch numbers could well be limited. According to Goldman Sachs analyst Bill Shope, Apple's choice of a super-thin glass screen for the second-gen tablet has led to supply chain delays, reports AppleInsider; the issue is supposedly not one of technology, but of yield, and Shope believes "volumes [will] ramp fairly quickly as the process improves"

The analyst also throws his hat in with existing predictions of a front-facing FaceTime HD camera for video calls, together with a faster processor and more RAM. He also expects both GSM and CDMA support, though not 4G; that might imply simultaneous availability on both AT&T and Verizon in the US, building on Apple's recent deal with the Verizon iPhone 4.

"It appears that Apple is once again pushing the technology envelope by making the device far thinner than the original iPad, and the iPad 2's ultra-thin glass screen is generating yield issues ... As of now, we are not assuming Apple will expand the storage capacity for the iPad, which should enable the company to enjoy better product margins over time" Bill Shope, analyst, Goldman Sachs

Yesterday it was revealed that Apple had cut supplies of the first-gen iPad to resellers, suggesting a new model was not only due for unveil on Wednesday but would arrive in shops imminently as well. We're also expecting a preview of iOS 5.0, and most likely the release of iOS 4.3.