TOKYO -- Suppliers of LCD panels for Apple's new iPhone will ramp up production soon, in line with a timetable for a worldwide launch as early as September.
The new phone, expected to be called the iPhone 6, will likely be offered in 4.7- and 5.5-inch versions, both of which are larger than the current generation's 4-inch screen.
Manufacturers have apparently begun making such components as fingerprint sensors and chips for liquid-crystal drivers.
Mass production of liquid crystal display panels will start as early as the April-June quarter at Sharp's Kameyama factory, Japan Display's Mobara plant, and elsewhere, according to sources. LG Electronics will supply panels as well. The new handset's display resolution is expected to be significantly higher than that of current models.
Apple put the iPhone 5 on the market in September 2012, selling 5 million units within the first three days. But shipments have since been lackluster. Last year, it introduced models in the same series with different price points for the first time with the 5S and 5C.
(Nikkei)
