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Apple is undoubtedly working on a new iPhone. And according to several rumors, the device will come with a bigger screen, a new design and some other enhancements that should make using it a bit more appealing. The big question now is when will it launch? Numerous rumors and reports from those claiming to know have pegged the new iPhone launch to anywhere from late summer to near the end of the year.
The latest rumor claims Apple is waiting until September to launch the handset. The company will unveil it in mid-September and then finally launch it at the end of the month, according to reports. At that point, the clock will start ticking again for when Apple finally launches the iPhone 6.
But for now, lets assume that Apple does in fact launch the iPhone 5 in September. Is it a good time? Is it a bad time? Some might disagree. But upon further inspection, itll be revealed quite quickly that launching the device in September would be a very smart move.
Read on to find out why:
1. The new-school-year rush
If Apple knows anything about its customers, its that many of them are young and returning to school. Around September, many parents are ready and willing to spend cash on their children. By launching the device in September, Apple might be able to capitalize on the tail end of the new-school-year rush. Thats a huge revenue opportunity for the company.
2. Capitalize on holiday shopping
If Apple launched the iPhone 5 over the summer, the company might have had little opportunity to take advantage of holiday shopping. But with a September launch, the device will still be on consumer minds when holiday shopping starts in November. Thats a good thing.
3. Create space between itself and Galaxy S III
The Samsung Galaxy S III is easily the most formidable mobile competitor Apple has ever faced. The device is bigger than the iPhone 4S, comes with a great design, and is popular among consumers. By distancing the iPhone 5, Apple doesnt need to worry so much about that device.
4. October is too late
If Apple launched the iPhone 5 in October, it might prove to be too late to the mobile game. Although consumers love to buy Apple products, they cant wait forever especially when the Galaxy S III is available now. Apple can wait until September, but to wait any longer would be a mistake.
A September Launch Steers Clear of Summer Product Rush
5. A summer launch is only good in July
Apple would have made a mistake by launching the iPhone 5 in any other summer month but July. Historically, August is a tough month for handset sales, and Apple knows it. Thats why the company has stayed away from August launches with the iPhone and why itll do it again this year.
6. Let the rumor mill keep it up
The rumor mill has historically been one of Apples most trusted allies. The longer it works, the more hype thats built up around Apples products. Rather than launch the iPhone 5 now and cut that off, Apple can keep the rumor mill churning out reports. Its free advertising for a device that doesnt even exist yet.
7. Less competition
Apple will find that theres far less competition in the marketplace in September than right now. Aside from the Galaxy S III, a host of companies are delivering new devices to store shelves over the summer. By distancing its own handset from the competition, Apple can allow that wave to pass by before offering up its own alternative.
8. Dont get caught up in Windows 8
9. It puts space between itself and an iPad Mini launch
According to reports, Apple plans to launch what the rumor mill calls iPad Mini at some point this year. Most of the rumors suggest Apple will offer up the device in December. If Apple waits any longer than September to launch the iPhone 5, it could cannibalize iPad Mini sales. But with a September launch, Apple can provide enough space between the devices to ensure success for both.
10. It matches up with iOS 6, OS X Facebook integration
Apple announced iOS 6 at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June, but said that it wont launch the platform until the fall. Chances are, iOS 6, along with OS Xs Facebook integration, wont be available until the iPhone 5 launches. So, it would only make sense for Apple to wait until the first possible moment in the fall to launch its device. The one-two punch of iOS 6 and a new iPhone will ensure that quarter belongs to Apple.
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