New rumors from far east of here say that Apple partner Foxconn is already assembling units of the “iPhone 5S”, using the same production lines as the current-generation iPhone 5.
Citing a source familiar with the matter, Japanese Apple blog MacOtakara reported that Foxconn is starting to ramp up production of Apple’s iPhone 5 successor. The site noted that because the design of the “iPhone 5S” is substantially the same to the company’s existing handset, little to no tooling is needed to manufacture the two models on the same production lines.
In January, Jefferies analyst Peter Misek estimated that production of the next-gen handset would begin in March ahead of a launch expected in either June or July.
MacOtakara also says that Japan’s number one wireless provider NTT DoCoMo, which does not as yet offer the iPhone, is reducing orders for Android-based phones for the Fall 2013 season. The reported move is causing speculation that the provider may soon begin offering the iPhone.
Rumors about Apple’s next handset offering have been increasingly reported, as a report on Monday claimed the iPhone 5S will most likely see a summer release.
Previous “S version” iPhones would suggest that the new model will not show an external design change, and will merely contain updated internal components. Rumors about the updated innards include a faster processor, upgraded camera, or camera lens assembly, and a possible white and yellow LED “Smart Flash.”
As always, all of the bove is rumor and speculation, but we will continue to keep you updated as more information about Apple’s upcoming handset is released.
