iPhone 5 To Launch in Fall?

The iPhone 4S debuted in October of 2011, which broke Apple’s tradition of releasing previous iPhone models during the summer months. Previously we reported that the latest smartphone from Apple was rumored to be ready for WWDC. Now Japanese blog Macotakara has claimed that they have knowledge from an “Asian reliable source” that the iPhone 5 will debut in September or October this year. Macotakara goes on to say that this cycle of fall releases for iPhone versions will continue in following years.

This latest rumor contradicts the opinion from Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster and others who have predicted the iPhone 5 would launch midsummer. The iPhone 5 is highly anticipated for its rumored features of a faster CPU, longer battery life, and support for 4G LTE, however iPhone 4S sales have been strong since October. A summer launch may be too soon for a new iPhone version, both in terms of its effect on demand as well as the time Apple needs to complete development and initial manufacturing of a new device. Whenever Apple does release the new iPhone 5, it is expected that Apple will continue making the iPhone 4 and 4S available at a reduced cost just as it currently does with the iPhone 4 and 3G.

If Apple does launch the iPhone 5 in the fall, this launch will confirm the shift that Apple has made from previous years where they have usually launched their new iPod product offerings in the fall. The iPod line had very few changes in 2011, and they account for much less revenue than in the past, according to Apple Insider, so new iPod product offerings are likely to be less important for holiday sales than new iPhone versions.

Cellular providers may welcome a later launch of an iPhone 5 offering, especially if it includes support for 4G LTE. AT&T has struggled to keep up with the demands the iPhone has placed on its 3G network, so it may benefit from having more time to build up its 4G infrastructure.

At the moment, most Apple devotees are anticipating the release of the next iPad version in early March. Most of the rumors around this next iPad version have included an upgrade camera, higher resolution retina display, a more powerful CPU, and support for 4G LTE.