Apple Inc is expected to deliver a strong sales performance in the holiday quarter based on analysts' predictions. According to Apple analysts at Cantor Fitzgerald, they expect a "strong hand" from the company with what they view as a successful opening weekend sales for the iPhone 5S and a positive welcome for the launch of the iPad Air.

Analyst Brian J. White uses information provided by Apple Inc's top suppliers in Taiwan which also reportedly receives a high percentage of sales from the tech giant. Mr White checked the preliminary sales data for the month of October from various companies. By looking at the data, he said Apple may be on track for a record sales growth.

According to Mr White, 96 per cent of Apple Inc's sales in October were included in the analysts' Apple Barometer. Analysts said Apple's sales are predicted to increase by 11 per cent on a month to month basis. The estimates are more than the average of flat sales performance for the company in the last eight years.

Analysts also expect Apple Inc to have a strong holiday quarter due to the high demand of its iPhones, iPads and Macs. The iPad Mini with retina display has yet to be released in stores but is expected to be available later on in the month. However, analysts will also consider problems with supply.

Mr White believes the iPad Mini with retina display will be available in Apple stores not later than Nov. 29. Some Apple observers believe the latest version of the iPad Mini will be available for purchase a week before that date.

New assembly partners

Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal has reported that Apple Inc plans to add new assembly partners to increase the supply of iOS devices and meet high demand. New manufacturing partners in Asia will be expected to handle the production of the iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C, iPad Air and iPad Mini with retina display.

Apple Inc will reportedly negotiate with Wistron to manufacture the iPhone 5C while Compal Communications will take care of the iPad Mini. The report also said Apple's main supplier Foxconn will focus on assembling the iPhone 5S.

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