Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is expected to launch at least three key products over the next two years: an iTV, an iWatch and a low-cost iPhone. According to analysts at Jefferies, the timing on these three products is likely going to shift.
In a report issued to investors this morning, analyst Peter Misek said their checks indicate that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s suppliers are “having problems with the new casing colors,” which would push the launch of the low-cost iPhone back to between July and September. The analysts said their checks also indicate that the price of the device will be between $350 and $450.
In addition, they said although they had expected an iTV-related event this month and then a launch in September or October, they believe the launch of the device has been pushed back to sometime next year. They said their checks show that neither LG nor Sharp is “achieving yield on the displays.”
They believed that iOS and the Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) ecosystem in general “would be enough to drive demand,” but they said their checks show that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is also pushing for the television itself to “stand out.” In their expectations, Apple wants a display “that looks like 4K / Ultra HD but without the super-premium cost.”
Misek said they removed the iTV from their estimates for Apple and also had an explanation for the company’s weaker-than-expected February sales. They also believe that the company’s iPad refresh will be pulled forward June and that the company is switching to an IGZO display for the 9.7-inch model so that the weight will be cut in half and sales will hopefully pick up.
They do believe that the iWatch will still happen this year. They give it about a 50 percent probability of a launch this year. They predict that it would have a 1-inch screen and be priced at $200 price tag. However, they say they’re cautious on possible volumes because they believe it’s a niche product. Therefore, they have not included the iWatch in their current estimates.
Jefferies analysts have kept their Hold rating on shares of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and have lowered their price target from $500 per share to $420 per share.
