Apple Stockpiling Third-Generation iPads Ahead Of Release Next Year

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One common thread around Apple device releases is the rapidity with which they all sell out. The iPhone 4, the iPad 2, and now, most recently, the iPhone 4S; seems like Apple just can’t keep enough of them in stores. This time around, though, Apple’s not going to get caught flat-footed, as the popular computer maker is reportedly accumulating a large quantity of third-generation iPads ahead of their release.

You’re probably asking by now, okay, but how many are we talking about here? The answer is a straight two million by the end of 2011, assuming all goes as planned. We’re already familiar, thanks to our own Chris Smith, that Apple’s got a plan for two new iPads coming out next year: one a minor refresh, and the other a complete revamping. The stockpile seems to focus heavily on the earlier model, the minor refresh version, so as to have it ready for stores in the early days of 2012.

Early word further says that there has been some delay in the launch schedule due to an issue with getting LED backlighting into the new model iPads, which is somewhat supported by earlier reports we had of the new iPad being delayed due to display issues. But still, Apple suppliers seem to be well on track to have a substantial backlog of the devices well in place ahead of shipping out.

Really, this is a good move for Apple; aside from the disturbing number of post-launch glitches the iOS line has seen to develop of late, about the only bad thing you could ever say for them is how hard it is to actually find Apple devices in stock most anywhere, especially within about three months or so of a product launch. And that Apple’s looking to build a good backlog now shows that they’re quite aware of one problem, and have an eye toward fixing it.

So what do you guys think about all this? Think it’s a smart idea for Apple to get a backlog together? Or do you think Apple’s jumping the gun a bit by keeping such a large stockpile of unsold goods on hand, especially in a bad economy? No matter what you think, the comments section is waiting for you below, so head on down and tell us what you think!