iPhone 8 release date faces delay as manufacturing glitches risk shortages

Analysts don't expect the delays to change many minds on the iPhone, however

There may be delays for eager fans awaiting the newest iPhone (Reuters)

Consumers expecting to get the newest iPhone on its release day this year may be disappointed.

Glitches early in the manufacturing process could lead to supply shortfalls and delays in shipping after the phone’s launch next week, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The news of potential delays for the iPhone 8 — the phone that marks the 10th anniversary of the phone that revolutionised portable phones — forced stock shares to drop by 0.4 per cent Thursday, at $161.26.

The production glitches reportedly delayed the manufacturing process by about a month, sources familiar with the matter told the Wall Street Journal.

But, it’s not clear that the delays will significantly impact sales for the device. Apple customers tend to be fiercely loyal to the brand, and a wait may not deter most people.

“There never appears to be a shortage of chatter about alleged production glitches at Apple but they seem to be able to crank out tens of millions of iPhones each quarter,” Walter Piecyk, an analyst with BTIG, told Reuters.

“I also doubt someone interested in a new iPhone will change brands if they have to wait a few months,” Mr Piecyk continued.

All eyes have been on this next iteration of the iPhone, which has investors and fans wondering if it will have enough new features to catch the eye of a new generation of potential customers.

The exact details of the new phone and its features are not clear, but it is widely rumored that the phones will adopt higher-resolution OLED displays, a better touchscreen technology, and wireless charging capabilities.

The new phones, which are set to be announced during a high-profile event next week, could cost as much as $1,000.