With iPhone 4 demand still high, iPhone 5 production not yet started

Speculation is growing that Apple won't release the iPhone 5 this summer as expected. In fact, according to a Digitimes report, Apple hasn't even released a production roadmap to component suppliers yet.

Citing "sources at Taiwan-based touch panel makers," Digitimes said part of the reason Apple isn't releasing a next-generation phone is because demand for the iPhone 4 has been consistently strong. Parts shipments have also remained constant, and Apple hasn't given manufacturers a timeframe for when production of the iPhone 4 will wind down.

Apple could release a slightly modified version of the iPhone that isn't a full update, as it did with the iPhone 3GS about two years ago. It's likely that Apple wants to continue riding the momentum of its hugely popular iPhone 4 smartphone, especially as Google's Android platform gains ground. However, the company could skip releasing any kind of phone at all. The rumors, at least, suggest it's highly possible.

Earlier this week, a Business Insider report said Apple won't begin production on a next-generation iPhone until September, which would put the device on the horizon for late 2011 or early 2012. On top of that, Japanese Apple-watching site Macotakara.jp recently posted a report that also said components for the iPhone 5 haven't been ordered yet and the device might not be available until Apple's 2012 fiscal year.

Apple typically releases new iPhones in June, so if the rumors are true, the company will break its long-time habit of updating products on a strict annual schedule.

Apple did not respond to questions about the delay.

This article, written by Leslie Horn, originally appeared on PCMag.com and is republished on Gear Live with the permission of Ziff Davis, Inc.