Apple iWatch Rumors: Suppliers Deliver Component Prototypes In Preparation for Fall Launch

The production season for Apple is starting to rev up. A new report out of Taipei, via DigiTimes, states that three Flexible Printed Circuit Board suppliers have delivered samples to Apple for use in its coming wearable device, the iWatch.

“Flexible PCB suppliers Flexium Interconnect, Zhen Ding Technology Holding and Career Technology reportedly have delivered FPCB samples for use in iWatch devices to Apple for validation, according to industry sources,” the site states.

The report comes a day after Taiwan’s Economic Daily reported that the iWatch will most likely launch in the third quarter 2014 alongside other rumored releases like the iPhone 6, iOS 8 and the Healthbook app. Apple is projecting production amounts to the tune of 65 million units. Most likely the iPhone 6 and the iWatch will be released on different days, however, much as the iPhone and iPad have individual release days. The iPhone 6 has been rumored for release in September.

While the launch of the iWatch will come in the third quarter, the wearable may be announced during WWDC 2014, Apple’s annual developer conference, which will be held June 2-6. Other notable announcements will most likely include iOS 8, Healthbook and possible upgraded hardware like the Macbook Air and an Apple TV 2. Developers notoriously clamor for the SDK and betas to Apple’s newest operating systems.

While we know very little about the iWatch due to limited information, reports have speculated that Apple’s first wearable will include biometric sensors like a heart-rate monitor, a pedometer and skin temperature thermometer. It will also most likely follow the health-centric trend of the Samsung Galaxy Gear 2 and Galaxy Gear Fit.

Flexible PCBs are circuit boards created on flexible plastic substrates or polyester. FPCBs allow electrical engineers and designers to move away from rigid circuit boards and move into more modern designs. Wearable devices like the iWatch benefit from FPCBs because of their shape.