According to Digitimes, Apple has set its sights on shipping over 40 million iPads in 2011, taking delivery of up to 6.5 million of first and second generation tablet devices in the first quarter.
Sourcing its information from Apple suppliers, the Chinese publication notes that Apple will receive between 300,000 and 400,000 units in its first batch, easing a potential supply backlog when the yet-to-be-announced iPad 2 makes its debut.
The Cupertino company reportedly ordered up to 2 million iPads over January and February to satisfy demand, with order volumes expected to rise substantially above 2 million units for the month of March. Apple has begun to phase out the first-generation iPad, pushing back delivery dates on its stores across the world.
Apple is expected to announce its new iPad today, a device that is likely to feature front and back facing cameras, a faster processor and a thinner profile. We will be reporting live, check back later today for our dedicated Apple iPad coverage.
Get the TNW newsletter
Get the most important tech news in your inbox each week.