The next iPhone is almost certainly already starting to be assembled on Foxconn’s production lines, but the Wuhan Coronavirus isn’t changing that.
The Wuhan Coronavirus isn’t affecting production in Foxconn’s factories, according to a report at The Verge.
The Verge quotes a statement from an unnamed Foxconn representative that says that the company is monitoring the situation but that it does not predict that it will affect its “manufacturing obligations”.
“Foxconn is closely monitoring the current public health challenge linked to the coronavirus and we are applying all recommended health and hygiene practices to all aspects of our operations in the affected markets. Our facilities in China are following holiday schedules and will continue to do so until all businesses have resumed standard operating hours.”
“As a matter of policy and for reasons of commercial sensitivity, we do not comment on our specific production practices, but we can confirm that we have measures in place to ensure that we can continue to meet all global manufacturing obligations.”
Foxconn is best known as being the primary producer of Apple’s iPhone lines, but it’s actually a very widespread maker of a wide variety of technology equipment and gadgets, including all of the HMD Global branded Nokia phones.
[referenced url=”https://gizmodo.com.au/2020/01/what-australians-need-to-know-about-the-wuhan-coronavirus/” thumb=”https://gizmodo.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/WHCV_WHO-410×231.jpg” title=”What Australians Need To Know About The Wuhan Coronavirus” excerpt=”There’s a lot of confusing information ” and sadly more than a bit of misinformation ” surrounding the novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan. Here’s what you need to know.”]
While Foxconn may be confident in its ability to continue production, there is potential for disruption depending on the how long the outbreak runs for, given that many of its international clients, including Apple may be relying on transport systems that are currently shut down.