Panel makers are currently seeing stagnant orders for panels used in smartphone and tablet devices due to excess shipments in the first half of 2013, according to industry sources.

　　Smartphone and tablet vendors were over optimistic about sales in the first half of the year, which brought increases in panel orders for panel makers, the sources said. While the vendors did see strong results during the time period they still have reserves, causing them to reduce orders to panel makers throughout July, the sources noted.

　　The sources also added that vendors are preparing to release new products in the second half of the year, with some yet to have put in orders for new products. This means that as vendors are going through their product swap period the panel makers and their affiliated supply chains are bearing the brunt of the situation.

　　However, market observers at large hold optimistic views for smartphone and tablet shipments in the second half of the year, which they say should help panel makers make up for the current slowdown.

　　Digitimes Research meanwhile said that Taiwan-based panel makers' small- to medium-size TFT LCD panel shipments are expected to reach 373 million units in the third quarter of 2013, up 3.2% on quarter.