Production launched for iPhone 9, delayed for iPhone 12

A new report from Taiwanese publication DigiTimes provides its most recent information about iPhone production. Based on sources close to Apple's suppliers, the newspaper reveals that iPhone 9 production is in the starting blocks. The new machine, with a still hypothetical name, should bepresented next month.

This is an expected model, as it is possibly at the low end of the iPhone range,between 400 and 500 euros, according to the latest rumors on the subject. This would allow Apple to reach more potential buyers, particularly in so-called “emerging” markets, where low- and mid-range Android models reign supreme.

On the other hand, DigiTimes announces a production delay for the iPhone 12. Subcontractors were initially scheduled to launch their assembly line for Apple's next flagship smartphones in June. But the Californian firm has reportedly stopped sending its engineers to China. However, the latter's task is normally to validate the iPhone assembly process before large-scale production begins.

The cause of these events is now well known to everyone, it is the Chinese coronavirus epidemic. China currently prevents population travel within the country, particularly by plane, except for professionals, but only in cases of force majeure.

However, nothing indicates at this stage whether Apple will manage to keep its usual schedule for the release of its next iPhone 12, with a presentation normally made in September and availability in stores in the same month.

Finally, know that the virus is also directly responsible forextraordinary cancellationof the Barcelona mobile show, the Mobile World Congress, which was to be held from February 23 to 28.

If the epidemic continues to spread, the year 2020 could be turned upside down, and obviously beyond the tech sphere.

Editor-in-chief for iPhon.fr. Pierre is like Indiana Jones, looking for the lost iOS trick. Also a long-time Mac user, Apple devices hold no secrets for him. Contact: pierre[a]iphon.fr.