Apple's October launch for the new version to the iPad Mini is in jeopardy, as the high-resolution Retina displays for the device are not ready.
The Cupertino, California-based firm's supply chain is starting production now on the displays, according to Reuters sources who work in the supply chain.
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This means that although the reported October launch date may still go ahead, Apple will only have a limited supply of new iPad Minis, leaving the firm struggling to ensure that the tablet hits stores before the Christmas shopping season begins.
The Retina's high-resolution screen technology that can be found on Apple's full-sized iPads, MacBook Pros and other devices. Apple claims the screens have a high enough pixel density that the human eye would not be able to see any pixels from a typical viewing distance.
Similar resolutions can be found on Google's Nexus 7 tablet, and Amazon's up-coming Kindle Fire HDX - a 7-inch tablet designed to compete with the new iPad Mini.
The sources claimed that Apple may have to wait until early next year for a launch or sell limited quantities of the device before the end of the year. This would give Amazon a head start, and potentially the holiday shopping season to itself to market and sell its new tablet.
