Historically, Apple has been releasing its newest iPhone devices and other products in September. So it would be safe to assume that the iPhone 8 would be released this September. But, recent reports have suggested that the iPhone 8 release date would be delayed this year. According to the Chinese-language publication Economic Daily News, Apple may push back the release date of the iPhone 8 to October or even November. The reason for the release date delay is several supply chain issues in Apple’s production in China. According to Economic Daily News, a Chinese language publication, also suggested that “technical issues related to the lamination process of curved OLED panels” could potentially make it difficult for Apple to continue production the iPhone 8. The newest iPhone is rumored to come with OLED panels and over 70 million OLED panels would be needed to complete the initial orders.
The OLED technology will make its first appearance when the iPhone 8 is released later this year. On top of the OLED displays, Apple has also rumored to include a new curved screen on the iPhone 8, signifying a drastic transformation of the traditional iPhone model.
Apple is projected to produce close to 95 million iPhone 8 units in 2017 alone, indicating a much higher demand for the newest model. Apple is continuing to cooperate with Samsung and intends to use the Korean corporation as a major supplier of parts. Prior to Apple’s inquiries to use the OLED technology that Samsung has continuously used for several previous models, supplying the increased demand of the OLED displays may be difficult since Apple is projecting to use over 95 million displays. Since Samsung may not be able to keep up with Apple’s demand, the iPhone 8 may not be able to accept all of the preorders.
Despite issues with Apple’s supply chain, a delay of the iPhone 8 release is not guaranteed. Throughout the years, many media reports suggested that the iPhone release would be delayed in previous years. Many of these reports are not true and are generally unreliable.
But, as Apple has reached a ten-year milestone, many believe that the iPhone 8 will integrate new technology to make it much more memorable. Apple is expected to include new technology into the iPhone 8, implying that Apple may have a difficult time meeting all of the demand. To truly make sure the iPhone 8 is a revolutionary model, Apple will most likely take more time to prepare, increasing the chances of the release to be delayed.
Other suggestions in the media include the possibility of a staggered release of three separate iPhone models in 2017. Apple may potentially release all three models at separate times, but there is no evidence to support this claim. Historically, Apple has never had several different release dates for different models and rather releases all of the models on the same day.
The rumors surrounding the iPhone 8 have attracted many investment groups to “respond favorably” to Apple Stock. Specifically, Pacific Crest Securities had raised its price target on Apple, suggesting an increase to $150 from $140 for the 12-month price. This year, Apple has seen a very positive year, referencing the 60% increase in stock price from May 2016.
The iPhone 8 is rumored to introduce several innovative technologies in the iPhone 8. Wireless charging may finally become an option for consumers as Apple is expected to “provide an enhanced version of wireless charging that will enable consumers to charge the device at a distance of 15 feet.” Furthermore, the iPhone 8 may come installed with an Ultimate Accessory Connector, a port that is smaller and thinner than its USB-C and Lightning port-counterparts.
