Apple has begun using iPad components to make the new iPhone 13.
The news comes at the same time the company is facing supply chain issues in the run-up to the holiday season.
The iPad and iPhone share a number of common components like peripheral chips, meaning Apple can shift supplies from one device to the other to help meet demand. That’s according to Nikkei Asia, which has a proven track record.
It’s thought that iPad production is down 50% from the company’s original plans, as the company wants to prioritize its new smartphone which was announced in September. The upcoming holiday period is a popular chance for companies like Apple to shift more smartphone stock, so it’s natural that Apple wants as many iPhones for sale as possible.
The company says that it expects stronger demand for the iPhone this year, though demand for iPads continues to remain strong, too, with the firm selling more than 40 million units in the first nine months of 2021. That’s up 17% on 2020.
Last year, Apple made a similar move and prioritized iPhones over iPads, so the chances are that the company has a contingency plan in place and will continue to execute it to ensure it can meet demand in the run-up to Christmas.
Are you surprised to hear this news? Are you worried about iPad shortages? Let us know and check back soon for more.