Don’t be in such a hurry to believe talk Apple will hold out until October to release its next-gen iPhone, one Wall Street analyst warns. Reading the tea leaves left by Asian suppliers, the expert gives three reasons why a new handset will appear earlier.
RBC Capital Markets analyst Mike Abramsky told investors Tuesday he is “cautious” about believing reports the tech giant will wait until October to unveil an upgrade to the current iPhone 4, often referred to as the “iPhone 5.” Abramsky’s note runs counter to earlier reports suggesting Apple would wait beyond September after failing to introduce a new handset during the traditional June and July period.
“Build data” from Apple’s Asian suppliers still points to production of a next-generation iPhone increasing in August and September. Likewise, the analyst points to comments by Apple executives speaking of a major product transition that could impact the company’s September financial quarter.
Additionally, Apple says the September quarter will likely garner $25 billion, below the $28.57 billion earned during the June quarter. The expected drop in revenue is seen by observers as slowing sales leading up to a new product announcement.
Additionally, Abramsky give credence to rumors AT&T retail workers are not allowed to take vacations at the end of September, a behavior that in the past has led to a product release.
Separately, Apple has also announced it will unveil its new iOS 5 mobile software in the fall, a further indication a new iPhone is in the wings. A September release would also mesh with the traditional back-to-school buying period.
