Rumor: Apple to use special ITO film coating on iPad mini

As you’ve probably gathered already by the months of chatter, Apple is widely expected to unveil a new tablet next month. It’s said to have a 7.85-inch display, and a profile as thin as the iPod touch.

Of course, since there’s been no official word from Apple regarding the product, all of this is still essentially speculation — rumors if you will. And this morning, we’ve got another one to add to the pile…

DigiTimes is reporting that Apple’s new iPad mini may be the first from the company to sport displays coated with ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), an electrically conductive substance that reduces radio noise.

“Taiwan-based Efun Technology’s profits have doubled in recent years due to ITO film and are expected to continue rising on reports that the technology will be used in Apple’s reported 7.85-inch iPad, said the sources.”

What does this mean to us as users? Well, with the reduction of radio frequency interference, we could see better connectivity from data and cellular services. And that, in turn, could equal better battery life.

It’s worth noting, however, that DigiTimes has a hit and miss record when it comes to Apple intel. As we’ve said before, it seems to use the “let’s throw everything at the wall and see what sticks” approach to journalism.

That being said, this actually sounds like something from Apple’s playbook. A new, likely low-cost tech that could help shave power usage or enhance the user experience. The rumored in-cell panels come to mind.

Anyway the media event, in which Apple is said to be unveiling this tablet alongside a new iPhone and other products, appears to be set for September 12. So hopefully we’ll get a lot of these questions answered then.

[AppleInsider]