Apple chooses its component supplier based on two factors. The first is to ensure the production of the device in huge quantities is possible, and second, to ensure high-quality parts for the same device. However, suppliers are finding it hard to make available the right components for the company’s next-generation iPhone 8.
Why the delay?
The suppliers are facing difficulty in finding quality components for display, wireless charging circuits, and the device’s motherboard. Apple’s next-generation iPhone is expected to boast a curved screen. The smartphone will bypass the LCD screens for OLED, per rumors.
However, challenges faced by the suppliers are worrying the company, which may, in turn, delay the release of the much-awaited handset.
The main focus will be on the iPhone X flaunting the OLED technology along with the curved display. Samsung Display, which is the OLED screen supplier for the upcoming iPhone, is encountering difficulties matching Apple’s demands. For the unfamiliar, Samsung Display is the only panel maker who has the ability to produce curved smartphone screens in bulk quantities.
What the experts say
According to Brian Huh, an IHS market analyst, Samsung could take a minimum of one to two months to manufacture the OLED panels for Apple. The original date for the delivery of the OLED panels was around May, but has been pushed to July due to the delay.
According to the analyst, Samsung prepared a total of 75 million curve OLED screens for Apple.
Apple and its suppliers are apparently also working to resolve the overheating problem of the wireless charging modules. According to Arthur Liao of Fusion Securities, the new wireless charging boards are still not working properly.
Another analyst from IDC, Sean Kao, highlighted problems surrounding the printed circuit boards.
Will other Apple handsets get delayed as well?
Customers will be facing a delay only for the OLED-enabled handsets, which is rumored to be the much awaited iPhone 8. However, the other expected handsets such as the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus are expected to release in September.
Many analysts opine that the OLED-enabled iPhone 8’s launch may move to November, whereas some think that the delivery may move to late October as well.
According to a few supply chain sources, both Apple and the component makers have enough time to ensure good quality products for the production and shipment of the devices. According to an industry insider, the shipment of some components for next-generation Apple handsets has already begun. It remains to be seen if the company can push out the new flagship timely.
