Apple to Unveil New Products Early Tomorrow Morning... "iPhone 12 Delayed Until Next Month"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Joselgina] Apple, which has introduced a new iPhone every September, is expected to limit this year’s event to unveiling the new iPad Air and Apple Watch 6. Apple’s first 5G iPhone, the iPhone 12, is likely to be revealed next month.

Local media, including the financial outlet CNBC, reported that Apple is preparing for an online product launch event on the 15th (local time). The event, starting at 2 a.m. KST on the 16th, will not feature a packed audience nor the new iPhone that has traditionally been unveiled every September due to the impact of COVID-19.

Guo Mingchi, an analyst at TF Securities, noted in a memo, "Due to difficulties in mass production, Apple will not unveil the iPhone 12 at this event," adding, "The new iPhone is expected to be released starting next month." Since the iPhone 5 in 2012, Apple has revealed new iPhones at its September events. However, this year, the COVID-19 pandemic has severely disrupted the supply chain, delaying the iPhone’s launch. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) described this as "a reflection of the uncertainties faced due to COVID-19."

The new iPhone is expected to be released in four models across two versions depending on 5G network support. The models anticipated to be unveiled next month include one with a 5.4-inch display, two with 6.1-inch displays, and one 6.7-inch "Pro Max" model. However, only some models are expected to support the fastest millimeter-wave 5G networks.

At this event, instead of the new iPhone, Apple is expected to unveil the new iPad Air and Apple Watch models and proceed with immediate release. The phrase included in the invitation, "time flies," is also analyzed to refer to the smartwatch.

The new smartwatch, Apple Watch 6, is confirmed to feature blood oxygen level detection for the first time and significantly improved health monitoring functions. Its design is similar to the existing Apple Watch 4 and 5. The iPad Air 4 adopts an 11-inch edge-to-edge display with thinner bezels and no home button. Positioned between the iPad and iPad Pro in terms of specifications, it is expected to include Touch ID fingerprint sensor, a single camera, and two speakers.

There are also expectations that Apple might unveil a budget Apple Watch and a device called AirTag at this event.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.