Apple is planning to split its upstream orders among 2-3 makers instead of relying on only 1-2 major makers, in an effort to avoid the risk of placing all its eggs in one basket. Electronics manufacturing service (EMS) providers will be the first to be impacted by the new strategy, according to sources from the upstream supply chain.

　　Apple is reportedly inspecting its EMS partners currently and is said to have already invited both Wistron and Compal Communication to join its manufacturing roll; however, the two players have declined to comment.

　　Although Apple's upstream component suppliers have not yet been reported as being included into the new strategy, the sources believe adjustments will come sooner or later.

　　Through the strategy, the sources believe that Apple is trying to start an operating model with flexibility and more profits.

　　However, even if Apple decides to add new partners, these suppliers are unlikely to start delivering orders until 2014 or 2015 since Apple's partners are all required to establish independent product lines specifically for the company, the sources said.