Apple will be releasing their next generation iPhone, according to Reuters, in September instead of the usual June-July release dates. The summer release has been the norm for the previous four years. Analysts have commented that one of the reasons for the delay is because of the recent events in Japan that may be a limiting factor in the ability to keep up with demand of this upcoming release. Apple depends on  Japan for some of its principal components. In previous releases, Apple's suppliers have had an almost impossible time meeting the demands and the upcoming release doesn't expect to be any different.

The iPhone has become the company’s flagship product. Over sixteen million were purchased in the last quarter of 2010 and the demand over the last 4 years has continued to increase. In fact, the iPhone continues to remain the most popular of all smart phones. With this current trend,  it will most likely remain in the number one position for sales throughout this year.

With the delayed release, experts suggest that the company will need to prepare even more to accommodate the demand. Apple continues to post strong quarters with growth and sales continually out pacing the PC industry average.

So what can you expect from the upcoming release of the iPhone 5?

The limited information that has been revealed is that the phone will feature increased memory and a much faster processor, while remaining similar in looks to the current iPhone 4. Most likely the upgraded processor will feature the Dual Core A5 processor that is currently used with the iPad.

The supply companies that provide the necessary components for the iPhone are chomping at the bit to start production in July, so the release can go as scheduled in September. Interestingly, the many suppliers rely on Apple for 20% to almost 40% of their business. Apple has been their main source of revenues.

Apples shares have recently been on the downside mostly because of the recent disaster in Japan as well as fears of shortages in components that the company depends on to assemble the product. Also, there are continuing concerns in the stability of Apple because of Steve Job's current health issues. The stock did rise 1.6% last Wednesday after Reuters announced the shipment of the new generation iPhone for the slated September release.

In conclusion, even with the delay in the release of the latest generation iPhone, sales will be expected to be strong. It's even been speculated that  because of the delay and increased anticipation, the demand will be even greater.