Report: The Leaves Will Be Falling Before Next iPhone Launches

Want more confirmation that the next iPhone is coming in October and not in June? Consider the latest report from PiperJaffray which says that chip delays mean a fall, not summer launch for Apple's sixth-generation handset, according to AppleInsider. According to PiperJaffray’s Gene Munster, Qualcomm is in short supply of 28nm chips. As such, the next iPhone will launch in October, just like the iPhone 4S did in 2011. As such, the firm estimates an 80 percent chance that iPhone sales will meet its forecast of 49 million units in the December 2012 quarter. Says Munster:

"We believe it would be unlikely that a consumer would choose to buy another phone if they are unable to get an iPhone 5 due to short term supply constraints given past launches with limited supply.”

Currently, the iPhone 4S and the third-generation 4G iPad make use of Qualcomm’s cellular chips. They are largely expected to supply the same for Apple’s next handset.

The next iPhone’s specs

Munster, who most consider a reliable source for Apple news, believes the next iPhone will “"more closely resemble the metal rear panel of the current iPad." In addition, he said there is a 50 percent chance that the next iPhone will have a screen larger than four inches.

"Beyond the redesigned body and screen, we believe the new phone will include 4G LTE, upgraded processor and memory, and a higher megapixel camera," he added.

Last week, The Wall Street Journal and Reuters confirmed through "people familiar with the matter" that the next iPhone would include a screen “at least 4 inches diagonally.” If correct, this would mark a significant departure for Apple which has always released handsets with a 3.5-inch screen. As usual, we'll keep you updated on the latest iPhone news. In addition, AppAdvice will provide full coverage from Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference which begins on June 11. Are you planning on buying Apple's next iPhone? Which phone do you currently own? Source: AppleInsider Photo: iPhone 5 concept by No Where Else

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