The coronavirus has impacted Apple’s supply chain in ways more than one, the latest example being the company’s oft-rumored iPhone SE successor that, instead of arriving this spring, now apparently faces a delayed launch, a new supply chain report claimed Thursday.

DigiTimes, a relatively reliable Taiwanese trade publication, relays information obtained from sources alleging that Apple told its flexible printed circuit board (PCB) suppliers that their shipments of iPhone SE 2 parts are being differed from the first quarter to the second quarter.

The parts should have originally shipped in the first quarter.

China’s Zhen Ding Technology is at 80% capacity utilization while Taiwan’s Flexium Interconnect is reportedly “ready to deliver volume shipments any time upon demand from Apple.”

AppleInsider puts the report in context:

Apple has deferred shipments of printed circuit boards from a supplier into the second quarter, a report claims, a delay caused by the coronavirus outbreak that could cause further problems for the launch of the long-rumored iPhone SE 2. […] It is further thought that the delays were not caused by the suppliers themselves having issues, but a decision on Apple’s side.

Due to its connection in Apple’s vas’s network of suppliers, DigiTimes is often right when it comes to deciphering whispers and informal chatter among suppliers related to Apple’s upcoming plans. But when it comes to timeframes, DigiTimes’ track record is less than stellar so take this report with a few pinches of salt.

Prior rumors have hinted at a spring launch for the second-generation iPhone SE.

Yesterday, a report claimed that an iPhone SE 2 LCD producer had recently entered the final phase of verification at an assembly plant in Zhengzhou, China, before entering mass production, according to industry sources.

The jury is still out as to whether there will be an Apple media event in late March to unveil the low-cost iPhone and possibly refresh other products.

Are you looking forward to the next iPhone SE?

Let us know in the comments down below!