Apple iPhone 12, AirTags Production Details Leak

Apple is expected to announce its new iPhone 12 series lineup soon, but a new report claims that the devices have not yet been mass-produced. The leak also reveals that the oft-rumored AirTags may soon make their way to stores.

Insiders “familiar with the matter” told the Nikkei Asian Review that Apple is behind its timetable in the production of the new iPhone 12 series models. Despite the delay, which was caused by problems related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company will begin the production of the devices by mid-September.

Manufacturing will start on a limited scale, the two sources said, adding that mass production is expected to start around the end of the month until early October.

Apple initially ordered components for a total of 100 million iPhone 12 series units but lowered the number to 80 million when the COVID-19 outbreak happened. Nikkei's sources said the manufacturers might only be able to produce 73 to 74 million this year.

Apple is expected to release four different flagship models in the iPhone 12 lineup. All of these offer support for 5G networks and feature improved specs compared to current models in the iPhone 11 series.

Per the sources, the company will start production for at least one model, the 6.1-inch lower-end iPhone 12 Max. This model accounts for 40% of the Cupertino tech giant's production orders for the 5G-capable iPhone 12 series.

A source speaking with Nikkei also said that Apple is already manufacturing its Tile-like tracking device called AirTags. This new gadget can be used to help users keep track of and locate any item, especially non-Apple items, as long as they are attached to it.

Apple Insider previously reported that the new AirTags will use the U1 chip that gives the latest iPhones improved tracking capabilities.

As for a new budget handset, Nikkei's sources claimed that Apple has no plans to release a new iPhone SE model next spring. The iPhone maker will be hosting an event to announce new devices on Sept. 15.

Fans are advised to stay tuned and wait for more details as they come.