Apple has added Osaka-based Sharp, as one of its maker of screens, to be used in the gen-next iPad. It seems that the tech giant is hunting for perfection and partnering the best for the best parts. Apple is expected to launch its next-generation iPad next year and sources familiar with the matter said that Sharp’s Kameyama No. 2 plant in central Japan will manufacture LCD panels for the device.
The source even noted that Apple has been even investing in other facilities at its recent partner’s panel manufacturing factories in Japan. However, the amount of investment was not disclosed. Again, it was highlighted that the tech giant is planning to work with multiple component makers to ensure that it can secure enough parts to make its popular iPhones and iPads.
Basically, Osaka-based Sharp in into making of liquid crystal displays, which are widely used in tablets, smartphones and flat-screen televisions. 
But according to the sources, Sharp has an Apple connection. The Japanese company is already supplying LCD panels for Apple’s iPhone smartphones. The partnership would see Sharp
supplying LCD panels for the next iPhone, which is also expected to launch sometime next year. Apple, from its end does not disclose the names of its component suppliers typically.
Apple’s earning growth has been strongly fueled up, based on the demand for the iPhone and iPad. However, the analysts noted that the results have still fallen short of their expectations for its most recent quarter. In its fiscal fourth quarter ended September 24, the company said last month that it sold 11.1 million iPads, as compared with 4.2 million a year earlier. Talking about the profits during the said quarter, the company’s profit rose 54 per cent from a year earlier to $US6.6 billion ($6.79bn), while revenue rose 39 per cent to $US28.27 billion.
Looking at the partnership from Sharp’s point of view, it may be amongst the best, but it has been attempting to turn around its LCD panel business. This could have been a reason that the company planned to supply iPad screens. This would help Sharp to increase production of smaller panels for smartphones and tablets instead of larger panels for televisions.
Mizuho Investors Securities analyst Nobuo Kurahashi said, “This would allow Sharp to count on a more stable sales volume and would help its technology gain more attention.”