Mar 18
The horrific 9.0 earthquake that struck off the coast of northern Japan may have some unexpected effects on the technology industry outside of the country. Take the iPad 2, which relies heavily upon Japanese parts, including the battery, compass, and newly designed display glass.
Unexpected demand for the second generation tablet has already led to shortages in Apple Stores and other retailers across the US and increasingly lengthy ship times. According to a new report, the ever-deepening crisis in Japan may well lead to continued shortages for the iPad 2, as well.
The device relies on very specific parts, so swapping one out for another may not be an option. “The iPad 2’s compass works in close coordination with the tablet’s accelerometer and gyroscope, iSuppli analyst Jérémie Bouchaud told the press. “This makes it impossible to simply replace one manufacturer’s compass with another.”
Apple has offered support in the wake of the quake, financially supporting employees in the country with payment for travel and other expenses. It has also set up donation options via iTunes.
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