Has Apple’s iPhone 5S Launch Been Delayed?

Although the general consensus among Apple analysts is for a September iPhone 5S launch, a recent rumor out of Taiwan warns that the Cupertino, California-based company may have to delay the release by several months due to production challenges. According to a story from the Taiwan-based Commercial Times reported by Bloomberg, the iPhone 5S may not be introduced until the end of the year.

The Commercial Times cites unnamed semiconductor industry sources who believe the iPhone 5S will not be ready by September or October because of Apple’s decision to redesign the device with a larger 4.3-inch Retina display. According to the report, the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. may be shipping chips for the iPhone 5S in August. The Taiwan-based newspaper’s sources also state that the so-called iPhone Lite, or budget iPhone, will still be ready by the end of the third quarte, according to Bloomberg. The report does not offer any other specific information.
Many analysts are expecting Apple to unveil at least two different models of iPhones sometime this fall. Numerous supply chain rumors and multiple leaked images of plastic iPhone casings in different colors seem to confirm these expectations. And recently leaked document obtained by PhoneArena also suggests that Apple may be releasing two different models of the lower-cost iPhone.