iPhone X Release Supply May Slim As Apple Refines TrueDepth
A report from Taipei suggested today that the iPhone X is struggling with a bit of a production delay. Sources suggest that this delay has to do with manufacturers struggling to perfect the dot projector portion of the 3D sensor setup in the iPhone X's sensor array. Analysts believe that while Apple's manufacturing speed at the launch of iPhone X may not be ideal, but mid-October remains the go-date for mass production.
Report comes from Nikkei where their source is an unnamed "tech executive familiar with iPhone X production." Earlier delay reports tipped two iPhone X parts names as Romeo and Juliet. Romeo for the dot projector, Juliet for the reader.
SEE HOW: Samsung's making more from iPhone X than their own Galaxy S8
It would appear that Romeo continues to be the issue in this extended series of production delays. This would all be part of the iPhone X's premiere feature – aside from it's display – the TrueDepth camera system. The previous report also originated with Nikkei, appearing in late September.
Despite the reports of delays in manufacturing, Apple has not changed their target date for iPhone X sales to the public. The TrueDepth camera system up front of this device is one of an array of features that set it aside from all previous iPhone releases. Our iPhone X VS iPhone 8 guide from earlier this month sets the stage.
This all plays in well with previous analyst projections on supply and demand for the iPhone X. In another early October report, KGI's Ming-Chi Kuo released an investor's note which suggested Apple's next super-cycle would happen in early 2018 rather than late 2017. This tip included word that comparatively little bottlenecking of supply and manufacturing would continue into 2018.
That report was also part of an extended analysis by our own Chris Davies on why The iPhone X launch will be a nightmare. Not like flaming horses galloping through your mind's eye – but the possibility that not every person who wants an iPhone X will be able to purchase one. Cross your fingers and cross your toes, too!