7-inch iPad rumored to be in the works for the Christmas shopping season

During the development process of the iPad, Apple reportedly experimented with a wide array of screen sizes. In the end, Apple obviously felt that 9.7-inches was the most ideal, but now reports are surfacing that a smaller iPad may be in the works just in time for the Chistmas shopping season.

During the development process of the iPad, Apple reportedly experimented with a wide array of screen sizes. In the end, Apple obviously felt that 9.7-inches was the most ideal, but now reports are surfacing that a smaller iPad may be in the works just in time for the Chistmas shopping season.

Translating a report from the Economic Daily News, IDG News reports that a number of Taiwanese companies have already secured component contracts for an upcoming 7-inch iPad.

Chimei Innolux will supply 7-inch LCD screens, which use the same IPS (in-plane switching) technology found in the original iPad, which improves viewing angles and color on LCD screens. Touchscreen technology for the screens will come from Cando Corporation, the report says.

Just recently, iLounge, which typically has a strong track record when it comes to Apple rumors, also reported that Apple was working on a 7-inch iPad.

Naturally, some are skeptical of these reports, and with good reason. The current iPad is still flying off the shelves, and in some markets, Apple is still struggling to meet demand. That said, why would Apple release a smaller, and presumably cheaper, version of the iPad when there's still a lot of money to be had with the first generation model? At the same time, remember that Apple had no qualms about discontinuing the original iPod Mini back in the mid-2000's when it was the hottest selling iPod on the market.

Another issue is whether or not there's even a need or a market for a 7-inch iPad. At 7-inch iPad is arguably lost in no-man's land - not small enough to be pocket sized and not big enough to really take advantage of what larger screens afford. Also, at what point does a 7-inch iPad become a 7-inch iPod Touch? 

One other theory is that a 7-inch iPad might be Apple's defense against a slew of tablets poised to rival the iPad and hit stores over the next few months. The price of the current iPad might price out certain consumers, and it's possible that Apple, in an effort to bring even more folks under the iOS umbrella, wants to create a more affordable tablet for the masses.

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