When the numbers get this big, it's hard to fathom exactly what they represent anymore.

Nonetheless, the assertion that Apple is gearing up to manufacturer 100 million iPhones in 2011 is as colourful as it is potentially ridiculous.

It's a number proffered by Morgan Stanley analyst Kathy Huberty, who – after visiting Asia – has offered a note talking up Apple's manufacturing capabilities in the region.

In Huberty's view, not only could we see 100 million iPhones this year, but Apple could also ship somewhere in the region of 40 million iPads.

Millions marathon

"The supply chain continues to indicate potential upside to over 100 million iPhones and over 40 million iPads, versus our current 72 million and 30 million estimates," said Huberty in the note.

"In addition to upward revisions from the recent Verizon launch, our meetings highlighted long iPhone lead times in China given strong demand.

"iPad touch panels, the major bottleneck over the past several quarters and 10-15 percent of the iPad's bill of materials, are now produced at 90 percent manufacturing yields with potential cost benefits passed on to Apple this year."

Huberty offered the note as part of a reaction to the announcement of CEO Steve Jobs' medical leave.

While it's suggested Apple may suffer a drop in share price as a result, analysts are billing it as an opportunity for people to invest while the price is relatively low, with longterm expectations for the firm unaffected by Jobs' absence.

[source: Apple Insider]