Jun 27, 2011
Goes into Production in August
Finally, the cat is out of the bag. Morgan Stanley analyst Katy Hubert predicted this morning that Apple will begin manufacturing its next-generation iPhone near the end of August. The corresponding estimate of a release date places the next iPhone’s arrival sometime in late September. The prediction appeared in a research note following some meetings in Taiwan, which are believed to have been with some of the tech giant’s parts suppliers. This seems to go right along with other predictions made by people who watch Apple Inc professionally — namely, market watchers and analysts. For the past two months, the most widely suspected release date for the next iPhone has been September, or perhaps even October. Approximately two million units are projected to ship in the fourth quarter of 2011.
Not only is the latest and greatest upgrade to Apple’s line of best selling smart phones expected, but there is also the possibility that the Cupertino based company is planning to unveil another version of the iPhone at the same time. The main attraction of course will be the iPhone 5, but a less expensive iPhone, rumored to be called the iPhone 4s, could also be on the way. The cheaper iPhone could be sold with prepaid calling plans, opening the iPhone up to scores of overseas markets where Android is a major competitor. It would also bring higher domestic sales of iPhones to people who market research suggests would love to use iPhone, but can’t get it on their carrier, or without a long term contract. So far, Android has been a leader in this area.
Rumors about a new, iPad 3 with a retina display have been circulating since the iPad 2 came out in April this year. While people seem enthusiastic about the possibility of a third-gen iPad, it’s not very likely that Apple would release one so soon after its most recent update to that device.
“It’s only been three months,” said Steve Barrents, analyst, “so it doesn’t make sense that Apple would cut with another revision right now. Most likely, a new iPad won’t appear until Q1 of 2012. That’s the way Apple rolls.”
So, iPhone hopefuls, rejoice! iPad wanters, patience is a virtue.
