TAIWAN – Smartphone maker High Tech Computer plans to add new suppliers and is currently discussing orders for 2011 with PCB makers.

The move follows the firm’s projection of substantial increases in smartphone shipments, according to published reports.

HTC expects next year’s shipments to hit 45 to 50 million units, up from an estimated 25 million units in 2010.

The company is reportedly looking at Ichia Technologies for flexible PCB.

Existing suppliers include Career Technology, M-Flex and Flexium Interconnect.

HTC is also working with Unitech Printed Circuit Board, Unimicron Technology, and others based in Japan.