Reuters claim three people familiar with the matter have confirmed that production of the iPhone 5 will start in July this year, with the launch to follow in September.

Apple Inc suppliers will begin production of its next-generation iPhone in July this year, with the finished product likely to begin shipping in September, three people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.

Reuters also go on to say that the iPhone 5 will have a faster processor; according to one of the three people, but it will look largely similar to the current iPhone 4. Obviously the three people declined to be identified due to the plans not being public information.

Just as obviously, Reuters is now entered in our iPhone 5 release pool.

[Reuters]