WSJ: Apple Delays Production of 12.9-inch iPad to 2015, 12-inch Retina MacBook Enters Production in December

Apple will delay production of a larger 12.9-inch iPad until 2015, reports The Wall Street Journal. The report cites difficulties with meeting iPhone production (specifically the iPhone 6 Plus) as a reason for the delay. Apple had originally planned to produce the larger units in mass volume beginning in December according to people familiar with the matter.

“The top priority for the supply chain is to meet the overwhelming demand for the larger screen iPhones. The output of the 5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus remains unsatisfactory,” the source said. “It would be challenging for display makers to split resources and spend a few months to ramp up production for a new larger screen iPad now.”

The WSJ also states suppliers are gearing up for mass production of a 12-inch Retina MacBook Air in December. Currently, Apple offers only 11-inch and 13-inch MacBook Air models that do not feature a retina display.


Rumors of a 12-inch Retina MacBook Air originally surfaced last year; however, its launch was reportedly pushed back due to Intel's broad well delays. Previous reports also claimed the device features a fan-less design and a new trackpad without a button assembly.

Apple is expected to unveil the new iPad Air on October 16th alongside new iMacs and OS X Yosemite.