Apple looks set to unveil dual-mode 5G iPhones later this year, setting the benchmark for high-end smartphones and outracing Andriod competitors in phone specs. But industry observers speculate that Apple may introduce single-band iPhones in 2021 due to practicality and cost concerns. In the iPhone supply chain, Luxshare promises to be a new assembler after taking over two of Wistron's assembly lines in China. In the displays sector, LCD panel maker AUO has stepped up efforts for mini LED applications by having its subsidiary Lextar form a holding company with fellow LED firm Epistar.
Apple may roll out iPhones with single 5G band support in 2021, say sources: Apple's 2020 series of iPhones will work on both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G networks, but there is a good chance that the vendor may introduce new models supporting either of the bands but not both for specific markets in 2021, according to sources from Taiwan's IC supply chain.
Foxconn, Pegatron to suffer from Luxshare becoming new iPhone assembler?: Wistron's latest move to sell its assembly lines in Kunshan, China to Chinese IT manufacturer Luxshare Precision Industry has marked a major shakeup in the iPhone supply chain, but the reshuffle will not necessarily be bad for another two existing iPhone assemblers Foxconn and Pegatron and may instead drive them to advance to a new height, according to industry observers.
AUO to sharpen mini LED development with Epistar, Lextar: AU Optronics (AUO) will enhance its cooperation with a holding company to be formed by one of its subsidiaries Lextar Electronics and Epistar, as it moves to sharpen its LED technology and product development, according to industry sources.