Apple will start manufacturing the 6.1-inch models of its next iPhone in July as it looks to get a head start on mass production ahead of an expected release in September.
All of the latest rumours point to Apple launching four new iPhone models in Q3 2020 with two 6.1-inch models set to be accompanied by a smaller 5.4-inch model and a larger 6.7-inch device.
While the make-up of the company’s flagship line-up is widely acknowledged, insiders are not entirely sure whether the full set of new iPhones will all be released at the same time.
The disruption to supply chains and manufacturing caused by COVID-19 is believed to have forced Apple to opt for a staggered launch this year.
This means that one or two of the models could arrive a month later, though all four are expected to arrive before the end of the year.
The latest news suggests that Apple is preparing to start production for the two 6.1-inch models in July or August.
Sources say that the earlier production roadmap is due to an outsourcing requirement.
While the 5.4-inch and 6.7-inch models will have Samsung’s Y-OCTA touch technology, touch modules will need to be acquired from a third party for the other two devices.
Samsung is tipped to supply the OLED displays for three of this year’s models, while BOE and LG will supply the other.
This will be the first year that all iPhones will house higher-quality OLED screens.
The latest report mirrors the report published by display analyst Ross Young in May that revealed the full details for Apple’s 2020 iPhone slate and said that general production would begin in mid-summer.
This should give Apple enough time to manufacture models in time for an official unveiling in September.
The iPhones are then likely to go on sale in October.