DIGITIMES is reporting that Apple may opt for curved glass touch screens for iOS devices in 2012. According to the report, curved glass will be very popular for a variety of devices next year, and Apple is big on the design.
So big, in fact, that Cupertino allegedly purchased glass polishing equipment for its suppliers in preparation for the production of iOS devices fitted with curved cover glass. Lens Technology and Fuji Crystal received the new equipment, and they have traditionally supplied the screens for the iPhone. G-Tech, who primarily supplies screens for the iPad, also received equipment from Apple, according to the report.
Curved glass is not new to the mobile device industry, and appears to be specifically an aesthetic development, with no clear technological advantage. Some manufacturers have claimed a stronger glass surface, but this would depend on a lot of variables. At this point, the use of curved glass by Apple would simply indicate a significant design change to iOS devices.
Via Electronista
Adrian covers daily news as well as the weekly Law & Apple column for MacLife.com. You can follow him on Twitter, if you want to.
