Rumour: UK launch of iPad 2 to be delayed

The UK launch of Apple's iPad 2 may be delayed due to high US demand and component shortages.

A report from market research firm iSuppli suggests that at least five key components of the iPad 2 - including its battery - are manufactured in Japan, which is currently coping with the aftermath of a major disaster.

Japan's launch of the iPad 2 has already been postponed.

The iPad 2 has been a big success in the US, reportedly shifting around 1 million units in its opening weekend, with customers now waiting up to five weeks for their orders to arrive.

If the manufacture of iPad 2 components is disrupted then a delay seems likely, especially considering the original iPad's international lauch was delayed based solely on high demand in the US.