Apple is apparently thinking big for its iPad Mini, with an eye on not running out of the new tablet -- at least initially.
Component makers in Asia say they have received orders to make more than 10 million of the much-rumored but as yet unannounced tablet in the fourth quarter, sources in the supply chain tell The Wall Street Journal. That target is roughly twice what Amazon reportedly ordered for the Kindle Fire for the same quarter.
Apple has been pretty tight-lipped on its tablet plans, but CNET has contacted the company for comment and will update this report when we learn more.
Those demands fly in the face of reports that the smaller iPad is proving a difficult task for manufacturers. The company's supply chain is having a tough time producing the tablet due to the tiny device's complex design, according to Topeka Capital analyst Brian White. However, he still expects the Cupertino tech titan to sell a boatload of iPad Minis by the end of the fourth quarter, reaching sales of 5 million to 7 million units.
While Apple has declined to comment, iPad Mini rumors have been swirling for months. According to those rumors, the device will feature a 7.85-inch display and go on sale for a price that's far cheaper than Apple's current, larger tablet.
Apple has reportedly already begun mass production of the new tablet, and media invitations to its launch are expected to be sent out to the media later this week.
