[Michael Essany]

If there's one consistent theme across the board in tech reporting this week (especially as it pertains to Apple) it's that supply/demand issues are bigger concerns than they have ever been before in Cupertino. Making matters worse, of course, is the reality that these aren't rumors. They're facts.

Following an admission that the white iPhone 4 will no longer be ready for release until later this year, now comes word that LG Display may cut output in light of the lingering problems associated with the inability to meet iPad demand. As confirmed by Reuters, LG Display is now expected to cut production of its liquid crystal displays next month (as a result of weak demand from TV makers) yet it remains unable to meet the "overwhelming" demand born of Apple's iPad. The company's chief executive put it this way: "We are now running at full capacity but we are considering production cuts in August."

The timing of this news for Apple simply could not be worse as the tech giant has just announced plans to roll out the iPad in nine additional countries. "Demand (from Apple) keeps growing and we can't meet it all. Apple may have to delay launches of the iPad for some countries due to tight component supplies and strong demand," LG Display CEO Kwon Young-soo told reporters. "We are considering increasing production lines for iPad products but overall supply is likely to remain tight until early next year."

With Apple's iPad market now expanding to a total of nineteen countries, both Cupertino and its iPad parts suppliers continue having trouble stocking the device in the US alone. With the added demand of new international marketplaces, the iPad "shortage crisis" as one reporter called it will likely get far worse before it gets any better in the weeks and months to come.

Reuters

[stlcaddie]

I'm glad I got mine, craigslist always has a iPad in stock. LOL

[aqan]

All I can say is buy aapl.

[dq13]

damn, I guess I better order it now, so I get it on time for X-Mas LOL

[TheReliq]

Pathetic. Open up plants in America as well. Maybe that'll speed up production?

[dq13]

I'm glad I got mine, craigslist always has a iPad in stock. LOL

Always in stock, as long as you are whilling to pay a couple extra hundred bucks... I rather wait :P

[GranDaddyPurp]

look like I'm gonna have to start saving up some money now and head to the Apple store to get me one of these before the "shortage crisis" occurs

[southfrisco]

I'm glad I got mine, craigslist always has a iPad in stock. LOL

Did craigslist finally fix that serial killer problem? ;-)

[LSZ33]

I'm trying hard to hold out until the 2nd gen is released. I don't think I have a need for one, it's more of an obsession to buy the new gadgets out.

[moon#pie]

^ same here. buy the time you are finally able to get one, it will be a month til the 2nd gen is released.

[z6joker9]

I do like my iPad... it's handy to have. That being said, after getting used to the clarity of text on the iP4's display, it's kind of annoying to use the iPad now. I'm hoping they don't wait too long before releasing v2 with a better display (and more RAM).

[cpkirkley]

Did craigslist finally fix that serial killer problem? ;-)

Lawlz.

Best post of the day so far.

[santacruzlocal]

Did craigslist finally fix that serial killer problem? ;-)

There is an App for that ...

[plcrules]

There is an App for that ...

2 bad it got pulled cuz it used private APIs

[goodgod2]

Pathetic. Open up plants in America as well. Maybe that'll speed up production?

So you don't think the iPad price is high enough? you know how much the iPad will cost if its made in the USA?

[Venom1234]

I'm glad I got mine, craigslist always has a iPad in stock. LOL

Agreed

[ecd5000]

All I can say is buy aapl.

ever since the the death grip ive been pondering that but still too high for a good deal.


apple needs to get on the ball here and stop F'n around. i hope there stock plummets so i can buy a share or 2 and rejoice when they do something right!

[macsoldier]

Great TIming...... NOT

[tudtran]

I didn't think the iPad would be this popular.

[sziklassy]

I do like my iPad... it's handy to have. That being said, after getting used to the clarity of text on the iP4's display, it's kind of annoying to use the iPad now. I'm hoping they don't wait too long before releasing v2 with a better display (and more RAM).

This is the number one reason I am happy I opted to wait for the iPhone4 instead. GF bought the ipad but she is always wanting to use my iphone!