Hon Hai Precision scores near-exclusive assembly deal for next-gen iPhones, reports say

Jan 21, 2013 08:49 GMT  ·  By

A new rumor stemming from two Chinese-language newspapers says that 2013 will witness the unveiling of three new iPhone models, starting with the 5S and a 4.8-inch iPhone “Math” in summer.

According to the translation of a China Times report, a third iPhone model, launching “before Christmas,” will reportedly boast a 12-megapixel camera. No other details regarding the phone’s features are provided.

Apple was previously thought to launch just two iPhones this year, one of which would be the iPhone 5S, and the other, a cheaper model. Some opined that the second iteration was actually the iPhone 6. But it’s all speculation at this point.

According to the translated (and adapted) China Times report, “Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. will undertake 90% of the manufacturing orders” of the new iPhone.

Largan Precision has reportedly been tapped for 8 million camera lenses, while Fujikura, Flexium and Zhen Ding are said to make the printed circuit boards on which the new iPhone’s chips will be placed.

“Foxconn Technology and Coxon will provide molding parts for Apple's new models; Foxlink will continue to offer connectors; Hon Hai Precision's Microelectronics Technology will start designing 4G network solutions for Apple,” the translation adds.

Apple has so far launched a single new iPhone model every other year, either in summer or in fall, but never two, and certainly not three. Breaking tradition is one thing, adopting a radically new business model is another.

Apple eventually did launch a mini tablet in 2012, despite calling the 7-inch form factor ill-fated in the past. However, it should be noted that Apple actually went for a 7.9-inch display, which is basically eight inches (not seven).

While there is clear indication that Apple wants equal doses of profits and market share (because you really can’t have one without the other at some point), three new iPhones just for the sake of appeasing everyone is certainly not Apple’s M.O.