Japan's Sharp has reportedly struck a deal with Samsung that some analysts said could potentially disturb Apple's supply chain and delay this year's iPad Mini 2 and iPad 5 release date.

Sharp has become a major supplier of display components used in the production of iPad Mini 2 and iPad 5 following Apple's decision to ease out Samsung from its supply chain system.

The two tech giants transitioned into bitter rivalry following years of collaboration, which gradually ended when Samsung's Galaxy devices started gaining traction against Apple's iPhones and iPads.

Now that Sharp is tapped by Samsung as a key display component supplier of the latter's mobile gadgets, according to a report by Reuters on Tuesday, the likelihood emerged that the former will get distracted on its earlier commitment with Apple.

Reports have indicated that Sharp is allowing the use of its IGZO display technology in the upcoming productions of the iPad Mini 2 and iPad 5. Apple reportedly picked IGZO for its higher sensitivity feature that delivers optimal touchscreen experience on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet computers.

There were talks too that Samsung is considering the deployment of IGZO on its Galaxy Note 3, the addition intended to enhance the capabilities of the phablet's S-Pen stylus.

The realignment, according to Apple Insider, is part of Sharp's strategy to maximise the possibilities available in light of the company's underway to efforts to achieve a major turnaround.

The news came out following suggestions that demands for both the iPad Mini and the iPad 4 have been diminishing starting this year, sparking rumours that the trend could either accelerate or hamper the rollout of their replacements.

Sharp, so it seems, is among the Apple suppliers that are feeling the crunch of declining revenues due to softer than expected demands for iOS devices.

Regardless, Sharp is on course to commence the display component production of iPhone 5S and the two iPad editions that Apple will release in the second half of 2013, Apple Insider said in a report.

The refreshed iPhone and its budget version are set for a September unveiling while the iPad Mini 2 and the iPad 5 will likely hit store shelves in October, analysts said.