Apple has apparently just finished lining up three component suppliers for the brand new, yet to be announced, fifth generation iPhone according to DigiTimes.
Avago, TriQuint, and Skyworks, are expected to provide galium arsenide components for the new iPhone. The total material price for the components could reach about $6 USD per iPhone.
Not a sexy rumor by far, but important nonetheless, if true. Apple has yet to head to the production line for the new iPhone 5 (aka iPhone 4S). An announcement from Apple is currently expected for some time in September, during the back-to-school event where Apple traditionally announces new its new iPod lineup. Some believe that an announcement in September is likely, with the iPhone actually shipping some time in October.
What’s galium arsenide, and why do we care?
Galium arsenide (GaAs) is a semiconductive material used instead of silicon in integrated circuits (IC) and other electronics that require better conductivity than silicon. GaAs components already exist in the iPhone 4, as well as other Apple products.
As for why you should care, we don’t have an answer. The only thing this really provides is information for investors of Avago, TriQuint, and Skyworks, as well as a quick nugget of information that the iPhone 5 won’t be on the market until at least late summer.
Source: DigiTimes
Image Credit: FangBianMian
