Apple iPhone 6 Release Date Rumors: 4.7-Inch Model Reportedly Launching In August, Larger Model In September

As rumors suggest that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) could release two models of its next-generation iPhone, dubbed the iPhone 6, with larger screen sizes this year, a new report said Friday that the California tech giant could debut the 4.7-inch version of the iPhone 6 as soon as in August, following up with a bigger model in September.

On Friday, Reuters cited a report from Taiwan’s Economic Daily News, saying that Apple could surprise the tech world by releasing the iPhone 6 with a 4.7-inch screen in August, one month earlier than the company’s usual iPhone release cycle. The report also said a 5.5-inch or 5.6-inch iPhone 6 model is expected to reach stores in September.

If Apple indeed launches a new iPhone in August, it would be a different strategy for the company, which launched the past three versions of the flagship smartphone in September or October, MacRumors reported. The site added that the current news also contradicts earlier reports, claiming that the 4.7-inch iPhone 6 could be launched in September, while the 5.5-inch version could be delayed until later this year or early 2015 due to production issues.

The report from the Economic Daily News in question also stated that Apple would produce 80 million iPhone 6 units in 2014, with the company’s suppliers, including Foxconn Technology Co. Ltd. (TPE:2354) and Largan Precision Co., Ltd. (TPE:3008), aiding with assembly and camera module production, respectively.

On Wednesday, it was reported that Pegatron Corporation (TPE:4938), a major Apple supplier, had received 15 percent of the orders for the new iPhone 6 with a 4.7-inch display. Some other reports also said that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM) has already provided the first batch of Touch ID fingerprint sensors that would be used in the iPhone 6, iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 3.

In addition to the larger screen sizes, the new iPhone 6 models could also feature a thinner design, a faster A8 processor and an improved camera.