Apple has warned customers that they will need to wait longer to get the latest iPhone models, after COVID restrictions were placed on a contractor’s factory located in central China.
The company announcement did not give any details, but stated that the factory, which is operated by Foxconn in Zhengzhou’s central city, is “operating with significantly reduced capacity”.
Apple stated that they now anticipate lower iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max shipment than previously thought.
Customers will have to wait longer for their new products.
Foxconn Technology Group stated earlier that it had imposed anti-virus precautions on the factory in response to virus outbreaks.
Foxconn and Apple have not previously responded to questions regarding how iPhone production may be affected.
After a spike in coronavirus infection in Zhengzhou, and the departure of workers from Zhengzhou’s factory last week, access was restricted to the industrial zone that houses the factory for one week.
Further disruptions are expected from the lockdown.
Foxconn stated in a statement, that the lockdown had caused it to revise its outlook for the quarter downward.
Foxconn said Monday that it was working with the government to end the pandemic. The company also stated that they are resuming production at their full capacity as soon as possible.
Foxconn’s management of the plant’s operation and prevention from pandemics was also stated by the provincial government.
The Zhengzhou plant’s WeChat social network account posted a Sunday post saying that a “closed loop system” would limit employees’ movement between their dormitories, and the factory area in order to reduce the risk of transmission.
Apple stated that it was working with its supplier to restore normal production levels, while also ensuring safety and health for all workers.
