DigiTimes is reporting that the supply chain for not only the iPhone 5 but iPad 3 is beginning to prepare materials for production of the two devices. Both devices are likely to make their debuts in September and to hit the market in October, according to industry sources.
iPhone 5’s supply volume is estimated to be around 6-7 million units in the third quarter and with the addition of iPhone 4 shipments, total iPhone shipments in the quarter will reach 24-25 million units with volumes to maintain at the same level in the fourth quarter. In 2011, Apple is forecasted to ship over 85 million iPhones.
Upstream component makers including Foxconn Electronics (Hon Hai Precision Industry), which is in charge of assembling the devices; Simplo Technologies and Dynapack International Technology, in charge of manufacturing batteries; TPK Holding and Wintek, in charge of touch panel modules; Catcher, in charge of chassis; and Largan Precision, in charge of webcams, are all expected to benefit from the orders.
DigiTimes has somewhat of a hit-and-miss record of Apple related rumors, while the iPhone 5 is expected, the iPad 3 release is somehow questionable. Previous rumors pointed out to two iPad will make their releases this year, so this might work this time.