Looking to cut costs on next-generation hardware, Apple will adopt cheaper and less complex battery technology for so-called "iPhone 12," "iPhone 12S" and "AirPods 3" devices, according to TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo .
Starting with this year's expected " iPhone 12 " family, Kuo in a note to investors on Friday said he believes Apple will reduce the number of rigid-flex battery board layers and squeeze active cell components into a smaller area to achieve an average unit price 40% to 50% lower than iPhone 11. Looking ahead of 2021, Apple's "iPhone 12S" will ditch rigid-flex boards for a flexible architecture that should shave 30% to 40% off "iPhone 12" battery unit costs.The cost saving measures, coupled with increased bargaining pressure to drive down component prices, are anticipated to hurt current battery board suppliers. Read more...