Edible Apple

Sharp announced last week that it has begun mass production of new displays which makes use of IGZO (indium gallium zinc oxide) materials. While some initial reports speculated that the recently released iPad would make use of IGZO, that never materialized.

But the latest rumor is that these displays may eventually find their way into the highly rumored Apple HDTV.

Sharp said the new technology allows for twice the detail of existing panels at the same transparency, which means high-resolution devices can be designed that require less power and space for backlighting. The company said the new displays cut power consumption by up to 90 percent versus those currently in use.

Less lighting and smaller battery requirements allow for thinner devices, and analysts have said Apple will use IGZO displays in its upcoming products, including its highly-anticipated entry into the smart TV market.

Of note, Apple’s top manufacturing partner – Hon Hai Precision Industry – recently invested close to $1 billion ($806 million to be exact) in Sharp, which many view as yet another indication that an Apple HDTV with Sharp panels are in the pipeline.

via PC World