Apple was originally expected to launch the second-generation iPhone SE, presumably called iPhone 9, as soon as this month, but due to the coronavirus outbreak, the company might decide to push back the release to a later date.
This is what a recent report from Digitimes suggests, as Apple suppliers working on parts for the iPhone 9 are seeing their orders deferred.
More specifically, the report explains that some orders are deferred from the first quarter to the second including for flexible PCB modules.
Of course, Apple hasn’t said a single thing about the iPhone 9 launch date, but given the virus outbreak, there’s a chance the company would internally change its plans for this new model.
iPhone 8 revisited
Apple could very well announce the iPhone 9 during an online-only event later this month, but actually start sales in April or May, depending on how the industry recovers after the coronavirus impact. Foxconn and the rest of suppliers expect to return to full production in several weeks, so the iPhone 9 inventory shouldn’t be affected in the long term.
On the other hand, Apple doesn’t afford to push back the launch of the iPhone 9 for too long, as the company is expected to unveil the 2020 generation in September.
iPhone 9 will be more or less an upgraded version of the iPhone 8, featuring the same body and design, but with upgraded internals. It’ll lack Face ID, but instead will come with Touch ID integrated into the home button, just like on the iPhone 8. The device is also expected to be rather affordable, with a $399 price tag likely for the base model in the United States.
Full information could be shared by Apple itself later this month, if the digital event indeed isn’t pushed back.
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