Given that phones are hard to come by right now, it’s hard to say what the fall phone launch will look like.
We’ve all been wondering: Will the supply chain be able to keep up with demand for all these new devices and gadgets? Some experts say that the outlook may not be good. Even the next iPhone could be affected by the lack of materials, as production of the rumored but unconfirmed iPhone 14 Max model is now said to be behind schedule.
The next iPhone from Apple, the iPhone 14, is said to come in four different models, just like the iPhone 13. But instead of just one large-sized phone, there will be two: the iPhone 14 Max and the iPhone 14 Pro Max. This makes it harder to secure parts than in previous years. Ross Young, a well-known analyst of display supply, said that because of this need, production is behind schedule.
Young’s original tweet is behind a paywall, but I paid the fee so you don’t have to (though you should if you like Young’s work). Young says that panel shipments for the iPhone 14 Max are “still way behind through August,” but not for the Pro models. Young says that the number of displays for these phones is more than three times higher than for regular Max phones.
The regular iPhone 14 Max is slowing things down because its screen is different from that of the Pro version. Apple’s adaptive refresh rate tech, ProMotion, is used in the Pro models. This means that the iPhone 14 Pro Max is likely to have an adaptive refresh rate of 120Hz, while the regular Max will stay at 60Hz.
The iPhone 14 Max hasn’t been pushed back by Apple. But it’s been interesting to watch Apple’s manufacturing process since it looks like the company has had to make some changes to meet its deadline. In May, we found out that Apple was having trouble with its supply chain when it chose a more expensive solution for its front-facing camera than it had in the past.
Apple’s supposed reason for making two big phones is to help its sales overseas, especially in places like China, where big phones are the norm.
iOS 16 is getting buzz, too
Even though iOS 16 will be available on more iPhones than just the 14 series, the current public beta gives us a better idea of what to expect when the software goes live.
We already know that iOS 16 has a new lock screen, that you can edit and delete messages, and that the Apple Home app has a new smart home hub. We know that Apple is working on more privacy and security features, like virtual cards, that will make online shopping safer in general. Apple would also make Hidden and Recently Deleted albums in the Photos app more private by locking them with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
There’s still a lot more that can leak out. We still have a few months to go before Apple makes a splash with the iPhone 14. The company hasn’t announced an event yet, but we’ve come to expect it around this time. Until then, if you want to spend your money on the latest and greatest, we beg you not to buy a new iPhone.