DigiTimes research analyst Kuo Ming-Chi has estimated that Apple is now shipping over 1.2 million iPads on a monthly basis — up from 700,000 units per month when the tablet was first introduced into the markets. By the end of 2010, shipments may actually exceed 2.5 million units per month.
It’s no surprise, as Apple’s iPad is in high demand. According to Apple’s website, the devices are shipping in 7 to 10 business days as the Cupertino-based company works feverishly to replenish supply. It’s gotten so bad in fact that Apple has been required to ship iPads directly from China as opposed to regional warehouse in the United States, thereby increasing ship times to customers.
On a side note, the DigiTimes report also indicates that Samsung Electronics will soon begin to ship iPad touchscreen displays [valued at $80-$90 each] in July, eventually reaching 300,000-500,000 units. LG Display has worked to ship nearly 900,000 touchscreen displays in May to meet iPad demand.
