It seems that iPhone 8 release may not happen in early 2017 as many expect since a latest report claimed that the production of the handset will commence in March.
According to Digitimes, citing supply chain sources, a small volume of iPhone 8 will be produced starting March 2017. Then, production will be ramped up in May and June ahead of iPhone's release date window in September. Thus, it seemed that Apple will still follow its original schedule for iPhone launch.
The report added that suppliers are expected to ship 60 million to 70 million iPhone 8 units in 2017. Sources claimed that Samsung Display would be the sole supplier of OLED panels for the iPhone 8. The South Korean company would be able to supply up to 20 million display panels per month for Apple's flagship device. Digitimes added that Nissha Printing could supply touch sensors, while TPK Holding would be responsible for bonding the touch sensors with OLED panels.
It is worth noting that Digitimes as a hit and miss record when it comes to Apple-related rumors. However, the publication have guessed correctly about suppliers that have landed with Apple contract.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 8 will sport an all-new design and will feature a 5.8-inch AMOLED display. Rumors claimed that the 5.8-inch iPhone 8 will have a button-less, bezel-free design. The fingerprint sensor and home functionality would be incorporated in the display panel.
According to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will also launch iPhone 7S and 7S Plus based on the company's tick-tock model on devices. In addition, there are wild rumors that Apple will also unveil a 5-inch iPhone 8, which is the company's mid-range smartphone that will replace iPhone SE. All three devices would feature wireless charging.
Wistron has hiked its investment in Kunshan, China to $200 million, about $65 million more than its previous budget, reports Apple Insider. If the report turns out to be true, it will be the first time Wistron will be responsible for assembling a primary iPhone rather than cheaper alternatives like the iPhone 5C and iPhone SE.
However, nothing is confirmed until Apple made the devices official.