The anticipated date of the iPhone 17 launch is lower than 5 months away, however Apple’s preliminary stock buildup has run into just a few hiccups. Earlier than launching a brand new gadget — particularly one that may probably promote out shortly — corporations have a tendency to ensure there’s adequate provide to fulfill the demand. Nonetheless, a scarcity of an important part means Apple isn’t capable of produce iPhone 17 gadgets as quick as they should.
The part in query is low thermal growth coefficient, or low-CTE, fiberglass material. Low-CTE fiberglass material is a key a part of managing warmth. In a closed, tightly-packed setting like an iPhone chassis, warmth isn’t capable of dissipate as simply. With out a option to deal with it appropriately, the elevated temperatures may cause different parts to develop. Whereas this often isn’t sufficient to outright break a telephone, it will possibly scale back its longevity, end in efficiency issues, and have a severe influence on battery life.
In line with an insider, Apple has urged its contacts within the provide chain to assist right the issue. Tim Cook dinner is reportedly “extraordinarily anxious” concerning the challenge. Grace Cloth Know-how is Apple’s major supply for the material (in addition to the world’s largest provider total) and is considered one of solely two corporations able to mass-producing ultra-thin low-CTE fiberglass material.
The iPhone 17 is shaping up for a rocky launch. Apple already has so much on its plate with the continuing Siri delay and the specter of increased costs resulting from tariffs. Manufacturing prices have additionally elevated, and it isn’t clear but whether or not Apple intends to soak up the prices or go them on to shoppers. Final 12 months noticed a rise within the variety of individuals shopping for used iPhones, and if the iPhone 17 collection sees a belated launch with increased costs, even die-hard Apple followers would possibly suppose twice earlier than making the plunge.