Screen defect could delay iPhone 5

Those looking forward to the next iteration of Apple’s world-conquering smartphone might have to wait a little longer.

DigiTimes reports that the eagerly awaited iPhone 5 may be delayed after a problem has been detected with some of the device’s touch panels produced by Wintek.

The site’s sources claim a "delayed bubble" has formed on many of the models. This is apparently difficult to avoid during production and hard to detect before the touch panels are laminated.

However, Wintek claims that the similarities between the manufacturing process for iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 means that the problem can be resolved quickly. The company produces between 20 and 25 per cent of the touch panels used in the iPhone 5.

The new iPhone is expected to be unveiled and released in October. Reports suggest Apple is planning to ship up to 26m units in Q4 2011.