New reports claimed that the iPad 5 and iPad Mini 2 release dates are delayed by shortages of one of the key components of the devices.

Taiwanese mobile-industry news site DigiTimes cited sources who claimed that Apple's chief supplier of thin-film touch sensors, Nissha, has reported severe shortages due to "a lack of production capacity."

The sensors are reportedly intended to feature in the next iterations of the iPad and its junior stablemate, which some claim could launch simultaneously during the second quarter.

To attempt to fulfil demand, the company intends to boost output by 30 percent before the end of the first quarter of the year.

This problem may be one of the possible causes why Apple aborted its calendar and delayed the launch of the devices indefinitely.

On the other hand, rumour has it that the iPad 5 will be announced next month featuring new and amazing design.

Apple-centric Web site iMore reported that the next generation of the iPads could make their debut in April. Although nothing has been written in stone in terms of specs, a "big redesign" is likely for the iPad 5, while the iPad Mini 2 will feature Retina Display.

"Apple is not going to release iPads that costs more or don't get as good battery life as the current models. So, if the next iPad mini does end up getting slated for April, it could be a spec bump, or have something other than Retina as a differentiator. Hopefully we'll know more soon," said the report.

Initial reports claimed that the fifth generation of Apple's iPad is speculated to be released this month as new rumours claimed that the company is following its original schedule.

Rumours claimed that the new iPad could arrive as early as March 2013 in the hope that it could salvaged Apple's plummeting earnings.

The iPad 5 is rumoured to have no bezels, and the whole form factor has been made sleeker. Horowitz believes this design indicates that Apple will be calling on Sharp's IGZO screen technology. Sharp, however, according to Horowitz, has been struggling, and its ability to deliver components on time will play a key role in the release of the next iPad.

However, the Cupertino-based company remained tight-lipped on the rumours and on its plans for this year.