The release of the iPhone 6 has been a hot topic the past few weeks, with special focus on its anticipated specs. One of these specs expected to be included is a sapphire glass screen that more scratch-resistant than the Corning Gorilla Glass used by many other smartphones today. Conflicting reports have fuelled the debate as to whether or not sapphire screens will be ready for the reported iPhone 6 release in September 9, or if people have to wait until next year.
Still Possible Despite Production Delays
Market research firm Yole Developmenets believes that despite the reported production delays, it is still possible for sapphire glass screens to be ready in time for the iPhone 6's rumored release on September 9. This is because Apple still appears to be on track. A report from the Tech Times says Apple has already acquired the sapphire materials needed for the screen. Forbes reports that they are ramping up their Mesa, Arizona plant for production, with a goal of producing 70-80 million phones before the year ends. With this goal in mind, GT Advanced is expected to be producing the sapphire now.
However, Yole notes an important drawback that could make Apple walk away from sapphire glass for now. Crystal growth has been low, and if Apple intends to use pure sapphire for their screens, they may not have enough. "If yields don't improve rapidly, Apple walking away from sapphire is still a possible scenario," Yole says.
GT Advanced Plant Ready for Demand
AppleInsider reports that the Arizona plant of GT Advanced, Apple's partner for sapphire glass production, is complete and ready for production. GT Advanced CEO Tom Gutierrez said that the 1.4-million square foot plant "is nearly complete and we are commencing the transition to volume production." The plant features sapphire growth and fabrication equipment, an arrangement that makes sapphire screen production easier for both companies.
Business Insider also reports about a new smuggled iPhone 6. The hype has been considerable that even TMZ has jumped on the bandwagon. According to the leak, the phone does not feature an iOS 8 though TMZ claims that this should be a standard procedure when smartphones are in production. This also supports details about the possible September 9 launch.
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