Qualcomm supply problems could delay iPhone?
Apple expected to use Qualcomm's LTE modem in next phone, but supply constraints may force it to stick to 4S's October launch schedule
Published: 20 April, 2012
READ MORE: Semiconductor | iPhone | LTE
Qualcomm's problems with getting sufficient supply of its new 28nm chips could delay the launch of a new iPhone, some analysts speculate, or at least keep the OEM on the October launch cycle it set in 2012 for the iPhone 4S.
In a research note, investment banking firm Piper Jaffray said it believes Apple will stick to the fall for its annual handset unveiling ceremony, a move from its original pattern of late spring, with the iPad generating the headlines in the earlier part of the year. However, this change may have been forced upon it by Qualcomm's admission that it had not yet secured sufficient capacity to meet demand for new chips. The San Diego firm is seeking additional foundry partners as its main supplier, TSMC, struggles to achieve full capacity for its new 28nm process.
This will affect the flagship Snapdragon S4 processor until the fourth quarter, Qualcomm has said, but could also hit LTE basebands, says Piper Jaffray. Apple does not use Snapdragon since it has its own A5 processor (and has had its own challenges in splitting the manufacture of that plant between existing supplier Samsung and TSMC). But it has turned to Qualcomm for CDMA modems and is expected to use the firm's LTE chips too.
"We expect the iPhone 5 to not only include a revolutionary newly designed body but also support LTE and utilize the Qualcomm 28nm baseband modem," said the research note.
On Qualcomm's earnings call, CEO Paul Jacobs said: "At this stage we cannot secure enough supply to meet the increasing demand we are experiencing."
More SEMICONDUCTOR News
More HANDSET News
More LTE News
COMMENTS
BYOD: Market Analysis and Forecasts
An in-depth insight into the rise of BYOD policies within the enterprise and analysis of the impact the trend will have on IT departments,...
Voice Command, Control and Search on Mobile Phones: Market Analysis & Forecasts
This report provides a comprehensive insight into the growing importance of voice command, control and search on handsets, analysing...
Data Centre Network Equipment: Market Analysis and Forecasts
This report provides a global assessment of the data centre network equipment market. Besides assessing the key market trends, sub-markets...
HetNet Market Summary & Forecasts: Macro Cells, Small Cells & Wi-Fi Offload
Carriers are struggling to cope with the explosion of data traffic on their networks, and the additional deployment of LTE and legacy...
Over-the-Top Communications: Threats & Opportunities for Mobile Operators
This report examines the implications of widespread adoption of mobile over-the-top IP communications for mobile operators, handset...
Portable Gaming Consoles: Market Analysis and Forecasts
This report provides a global assessment of the PGC market. In addition to assessing the key market drivers, market barriers, vendor...
Satellite Phones: Will Dual Mode Help the Phoenix Rise from the Ashes?
Satellite phones have followed an arduous path since their much-hyped launch more than a decade ago. The hype was followed by an e...
