Over the past few weeks, we’ve been reporting about how the iPhone 8 could be delayed. As for how long the delay will be? That depends on who you want to believe because so far there has been no official information released. However, now there’s a new report based on a note from trusted Apple Insider, and KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. And if true, it could mean a worse case scenario for Apple fans.
iPhone 8 Release Delay
In a note sent out to investors, Kuo stands firmly by his belief that the iPhone 8 will be delayed. Why? As previously reported is apparently due to manufacturing problems, which will prevent the ramping up of production.
Regarding the note sent by Kuo, he titled it “Rising probability of worst-case scenario for iPhone shipment.” And within it, he goes on to say that the iPhone 8 may be delayed as far back as October, even November. Which, would be a serious blow to Apple’s usual August to September production hopes.
Short Supply
Fortunately, for those hoping to get their hands on the iPhone 8 as early as possible, it does not mean it won’t be announced in September. It means that the handset will be available in significantly fewer numbers that Apple had wished. Which, means, they will be in short supply the world over, something that has happened before.
As for the number of units being talked about here, Kuo thinks that Apple will only be able to ship around 80-million in 2017. Which if it is accurate would mean a shortfall of up to 30-million. That’s a lot of iPhone 8’s not in the hands of customers or sitting on the shelves of retailers.
Technical Issues
Moving on to what are the route causes for the possible delay, there could be many. Rumors have circled which talk about 3D sensor problems, and even the implementation of Touch ID under the OLED screen seeing issues.
Regarding these matters Kuo mentions in his note:
“While we are positive on potential replacement demand triggered by OLED iPhone, it’s too early to determine if market demand will shift fully in that direction. We recommend investors keep tabs on the following issues. (1) whether the 3D sensor of OLED iPhone provides an innovative user experience. (2) Whether OLED iPhone cancels Touch ID (fingerprint recognition). (3) If Apple’s competitors launch more innovative products which could compete with OLED iPhone in 4Q17-2Q18.”
Touch ID
Concerning which rumors/reports may be accurate and others not, that can not be determined right now. However, the increasing amount of trustworthy sources reporting the same or similar problems is concerning. Worryingly reports relating to Touch ID suggest embedding it into the glass screen of the iPhone 8 does not go well. And this is one of the reasons Kuo is now increasing his advice to investors about possible iPhone 8 delays.
As for the apparent alternative scenario, which sees’s Apple take Samsung’s approach and place it on the rear. As a solution, this is certainly a likely one, as it could help to ease production delays. However, with fans expecting a truly awesome next iPhone, Apple may choose to hold off. Additionally, it could even be possible for Touch ID to be dropped altogether, in favor of some other sensing technology. Maybe something like Iris scanning as seen on the Galaxy S8.
There’s also talk of a problem with the iPhone 8’s display, specifically, the lamination process and the 3D sensing front camera. None, of which Kuo goes into any detail about.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a regular follower of smartphone releases, then you will know that shortages and delays are commonplace. And as such, Apple is no stranger to production issues and technical difficulties. The difference with the iPhone 8, however, is the sheer amount of reports we see from trusted sources.
The problem for Apple should this all be true, is, there could be severe consequences. Why? Only last week Tim Cook, complained about iPhone 8 rumors being responsible for putting the brakes on iPhone 7 and 7 Plus sales. So, if that means, there are a significant amount of people waiting for the iPhone 8, instead of upgrading now. What will a not so unique 10th-anniversary handset release due to tech problems, coupled with delays mean?
We certainly wouldn’t want to be in Apple’s shoes, that’s for sure.
