COVID-19 has disrupted production lines and supply chains of all major tech giants. Apple, Google, Samsung, Microsoft, Amazon, and Sony are just a few to names from a whole list of companies that have postponed events until further notices. Manufacturers anticipate that product shipments may be delayed by weeks. All sporting leagues, tech events, music festivals, and public gatherings are also banned almost globally. Here’s the latest on the coronavirus and how it’s affecting the tech industry and all the events expected later in 2020.
The coronavirus unfortunately shut down China’s manufacturing industry for several weeks, which resulted in adverse long-term effects for many tech brands. It’s business as usual for the industry for now and most manufacturers stockpile products months in advance. Although companies like Samsung do not rely on China for manufacturing anymore, the individual components that go into their phones are still manufactured predominantly in the country. But by now, the virus has spread globally which is affecting production in all parts of the world equally.
Apple’s 2020 iPhones
Apple is expected to launch a new iPhone in the coming weeks called iPhone SE. The initial model was previously launched in 2016 but was discontinued in recent years. The new phone is rumored to feature a 4-inch display with an A13 Bionic system-on-chip and the same design as iPhone 8.
Apple’s 2020 iPhone lineup is expected to include 4 new 5G-capable models. Their display sizes will range from 5.4-inches to 6.7-inches. These new phones appear to be on track as well. Foxconn assured investors that new iPhones can still launch later this year without any delay. There were reports of issues faced by employees due to the ongoing lockdown. Apple had also started letting employees take home early versions of future devices.
Microsoft’s Surface Neo and Duo
Last October, Microsoft unveiled Windows 10X, a version of Windows which is meant to support dual-screen laptops. The company had also outlined its plans of launching a 10X powered device called the Surface Neo. However, it was recently reported through sources that Surface Neo will not be able to ship this year and nor will third-party apps, which can run Windows 10X. There is no official announcement from the company about the delay though.
Samsung’s Galaxy Note 20 and Galaxy Fold 2
Samsung is planning to launch its Note 20 later this year in August, along with a second-generation version of Galaxy Foldable phone. Samsung’s employees are still working from home, and these devices are expected to be announced as early as July. Note 20 is expected to have a 7-inch display while Galaxy Fold 2’s display will be larger than its previous model. It is expected to be on track for now, however, things might change depending on the situation around the world.
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