Foxconn assigned production of 100 test units, sources say

Jan 25, 2014 09:43 GMT  ·  By

Apple once considered sapphire displays unfeasible, but recent developments have allowed the company to cut down on the costs of obtaining the high-strength material in bulk.

With plans to equip its next-generation iPhones with sapphire cover glass, Apple has now started trial production of the iPhone 6 with Foxconn Electronics, the company’s main assembler, according to a report from China.

A rough Google translation of this Apple Daily report says that Apple has tasked Foxconn with producing no less than 100 trial units of the phone, for testing purposes.

“Supply chain broke, Apple OEM partner Hon Hai (2317) Shenzhen Longhua plant is equipped with a sapphire substrate recent attempt to assemble as a surface protective screen of the iPhone, the number of about 100, though not much, but Apple and sapphire substrate plant, is also a great progress.”

Asked for comment, Foxconn spokesman Xing Zhiping refused to confirm the initiative.

MacRumors claims to have heard “unconfirmed word” that Apple has tapped Swiss company Meyer Burger Technologies to acquire sapphire cutting machines.

The Foxconn news bodes well with a leak we reported on recently. Titled “iPhone 6 Parts,” a 52-second clip showing what appeared to be a Liquidmetal chassis emerged on YouTube, leading us to believe that Apple is switching away from aluminum for its upcoming iPhone model.

The chassis also looks taller and wider, which would support rumors of the iPhone 6 bearing a larger display.

Analysts speaking with sources in Apple’s supply chain say there are two such iPhone models planned, one with a 4.5-inch screen, the other sporting a display that goes well over five inches on the diagonal.

Apple is expected to announce two all-new iPhone models at a special event planned for later this year, with some analysts speculating that the company will return to its summer refresh cycle by introducing the phones at its Worldwide Developers Conference (usually held in June).