Apple may have something in the works for the third quarter as MarketWatch is reporting that the company is placing orders with assorted component suppliers for parts.

The company has apparently secured orders from component manufacturers AU Optronics Corp. and Chi Mei Optoelectronics Corp. for flat-panel displays to use in new MacBook units scheduled to ship in the third quarter of this year between July and September.

The news emerges as Mac industry chatter speculates Apple may have a complete redesign of its consumer laptops planned. The overhaul may introduce aluminium, rather than plastic, case designs.

It's the rumor mill, so it has to be true. Let us know what you think over in the comments or forums.