Apple customers can expect longer wait times for iPhone 14 Pro models leading up to Christmas due to a Covid outbreak at its factory. The tech giant disclosed that deliveries will be slower as its key supplier, Foxconn’s factory in Zhengzhou, eastern China, was hit by a new wave of infections. Bloomberg sources revealed that three million fewer iPhone 14 units will be produced this year than initially estimated. Apple stated that they anticipate lower shipments of iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max and apologized for the extended wait times. The Zhengzhou factory plays a crucial role in producing these models, and Apple is actively collaborating with Foxconn to restore normal production levels.
In September, Apple scaled back its iPhone 14 orders due to weaker-than-expected consumer demand. However, the company’s recent financial results still reflected growth despite external pressures. This slowdown in iPhone 14 production follows a series of Covid outbreaks at the Zhengzhou factory, which prompted local authorities to impose a lockdown last week. Around 20,000 employees were quarantined, as reported by Reuters. Foxconn disputed this figure and stated that staff had freedom of movement within the facility. Reports on social media highlighted food shortages and alleged instances of employees fleeing the site to avoid being confined to their workplace. Although a video emerged suggesting deaths among the staff, Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn) denied these claims.
Foxconn has initiated a recruitment campaign and is offering a one-off bonus of 500 yuan (£61) to recently departed employees who return. Concerns about surging inflation rates worldwide, reaching close to double digits in the UK, have prompted consumers to be more cautious with their spending as the winter season approaches. Additionally, Apple is grappling with challenges from the European Union as it complies with the EU-mandated USB-C charging port requirement for its future iPhones. This regulation, aimed at reducing electronic waste, will impact sales of proprietary Lightning charger cables, as consumers will be able to use generic alternatives instead.
[Image: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/technology/2022/11/07/TELEMMGLPICT000315400952_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqpVlberWd9EgFPZtcLiMQf0Rf_Wk3V23H2268P_XkPxc.jpeg]
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