Apple has visited factories of Taiwan-based ODM Wistron and has qualified Wistron for OEM production of iPad mini, according to Taiwan-based supply chain makers. However, Wistron declined to comment.

　　Since Apple has released iPad mini orders to Foxconn Electronics (Hon Hai Precision Industry) and Pegatron in 2013, Wistron may begin production in 2014 or 2015 at the earliest, the sources said.

　　Apple has continued to adjust its supply chain through selecting new component makers and OEMs since Tim Cook assumed the role of CEO, the sources indicated. In order to enter Apple's supply chain, Wistron has set up dedicated production lines to meet Apple's strict requirements, the sources said. Since Wistron manufactures notebooks, tablets and smartphones, its qualification for iPad mini production will give it a chance of obtaining orders for MacBook, iPad and iPhone in the future, the sources analyzed.

　　In addition to Wistron, Apple has selected two Taiwan-based notebook battery pack makers to supply battery packs for use in a new-generation iPhone, the sources indicated.