A Monday Bloomberg report claims Apple’s 5G-capable “iPhone 12” is still on track for a fall release, but future device releases could be delayed because of disruptions to Apple’s wider supply chain network
Signs are that Apple’s Chinese-centric manufacturing — of which Hon Hai is the linchpin — is slowly getting back on track. The next iPhones with 5G wireless capabilities remain on schedule to launch in the fall, partly because mass production isn’t slated to begin until the summer, people familiar with matter have said.
Foxconn (Hon Hai) was forced to postpone the reopening of its main iPhone assembly plant in Zhengzhou due to strict quarantine measures in the area. However, Apple’s main assembly partner is reported to have significantly increased signing bonuses to attract the new workers required to assemble devices.
We’ve been seeing mixed reports on the state of Apple’s 2020 iPhone production timeline. A Nikkei report last week indicated the Cupertino firm is strongly considering delaying the launch of its 5G-equipped 2020 iPhone lineup.
Two days later, a Digitimes report claimed supply chain suppliers, including those that make the printed circuit boards used in the iPhone had not been asked to postpone volume production for 2020 iPhone components.
Apple is widely expected to release four “iPhone 12” models in the fall, including one 5.4-inch model, two 6.1-inch models, and one 6.7-inch model.
Today’s Bloomberg report does caution that other future Apple devices could see delays due to disruptions in Apple’s wider supply chain network. The report notes that the device maker usually spends “months or even years” sourcing components around the globe.