Several technology firms including Apple, are among companies affected by the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Major disruptions to supplies has been reported by several manufacturers based in Japan – home to many of the world’s major high tech devices. As a result, organisations such as Sony, Panasonic, Canon and Toshiba, have had to stop production so as to carry out safety checks thus resulting in some interruptions in normal services around the country.
iPad 2 Launch Delayed
Perhaps, one of the most significant effects among technology firms involves the postponement of the launch of the iPad 2 tablet computer device. Although, Apple says the delay is unrelated to supply shortages, a spokesperson announced that the launch of the iPad 2 in Japan is delayed “while the country and our teams focus on recovering from the recent disaster.”
The new iPad 2 device was launched across the United States last week with many retailers running out of stock within hours. Sale of the gadget is expected to resume in 24 other countries next week.
Meanwhile, Apple has been accepting donations for the American Red Cross’ (ARC) Japan earthquake and tsunami relief fund through its iTunes store. All proceeds of the donations are expected to go directly to the Red Cross.