iPhone 12 production starts in July

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This iPhone 12 concept reflects all the latest rumors.
Assembly of the iPhone 12 might still be right around the corner.
Photo: svetapple.sk

The iPhone 12 series will reportedly start being assembled in July. Apple’s top-tier 2020 handsets are waiting on final testing.

What’s not clear how this information, supposedly coming from sources in Apple’s Asian supply chain, fits with various earlier rumors that the next-generation iPhone won’t debut until October. The company typically launches new models in September.

Digitimes (via MacRumors) reported on Tuesday that the second phase of the Engineering Validation Test (EVT) process will be complete this month, and production will begin next month.

Starting assembly of the iPhone 12 in July could mean that the device will start shipping in September, but it doesn’t have to. Two months of production time before the launch isn’t very much.

iPhone 12 release in late 2020?

While there have been occasional exceptions, most iOS handsets debut in September. However, previous reports have pointed to a delayed release of the iPhone 12. Reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicted in April that some versions wouldn’t be out until October. A trusted source familiar with Apple’s plans told Cult of Mac something similar. And just last week, chipmaker Broadcom broadly hinted at a late iPhone release.

The delay supposedly comes from difficulties getting testing started months ago during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Four iPhone models on the docket

According to numerous sources, Apple is planning no less than four iPhone 12 versions. These include a standard of tier of 5.4- and 6.1-inch handsets, as well as 6.1- and 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro models. All will feature redesigned chassis and OLED displays.

Meanwhile, the iPhone 12 Pro series will supposedly have an improved LiDAR 3D scanner like the one in the latest iPad Pro.

All four handsets will be the first in Apple history to boast 5G capabilities. This includes mmWave in the United States.

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