Supply chain checks enhance confidence in iPhone 13 September launch this year

Based on Asia supply chain checks, Wedbush claims that iPhone 13 series is on track for a September launch this year. In its new investors’ note, the investment firm details that the upcoming series will launch by the third week of September with the availability of all four models in September, as well.

There is considerable confusion on the launch of the next-generation iPhone series because last year, iPhone 12 series was unveiled in October. Production delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic made Apple pushed the launch time by a month than the usual September launch time.  And 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini and 6.1-inch iPhone 12 models were available in October but 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro models were available by November.

Having said that, the tech industry is facing challenges in 2021 like global chip shortage, a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, and others that have cast doubt on iPhone 13’s launch time.

Wedbush analysts reiterate iPhone 13 September launch claim

The new note maintains the firm’s previous claim that the next-generation iPhone series will launch next month. But this time, the report is based on shipments data from supply chain sources.

Our recent Asia supply chain checks for 2H put iPhone builds between 130M-150M. The iPhone 13 appears to represent 35%-45% of iPhone builds in Q3, this positive outlook gives us enhanced confidence that 2021’s launch timing will be “normal.” From a timing perspective, we believe the current iPhone 13 launch is slated for the third week in September.

The report suggests that the current build of iPhone 13 (90 million units) is 10% higher than iPhone 12 (80 million) in 2020. Therefore, the 5G supported smartphones will extend well into 2022.

The bank also repeated that the new iPhone 13 series will offer a 1 terabyte storage model which is double the capacity of the iPhone 12 Pro Max 512GB storage option. And all four models of the series will come with LiDAR scanners.

Other reports detail that the iPhone 13 Pro models will have larger camera modules, will be thicker because of bigger batteries,120Hz refresh rate. Apple is expected to upgrade cameras across the series, along with smaller notch, always-on display, and other features.