Mizuho Suggests Apple May Be Rushing to Get Next iPhone to Market

Mizuho Securities analyst Abhey Lamba believes Apple

is likely to release a new version of their flagship iPhone in June-July. This estimate provides an earlier timeframe than the much-reported August launch date most Apple rumor sites agree on. While Apple is rumored to be releasing a lower-cost iPhone later this year, Lamba feels a larger screen on the upcoming iPhone refresh is “not likely.” March quarter shipments are likely to see a “significant” drop, with total phone units in the range of 35-40 million. Mizuho rates Apple at Buy with a price target of $575. It has been a rough year for AAPL, down nearly 9 percent over the last 30 days and down nearly 19 percent YTD. The stock is currently at $433.56 (up 0.69%) in midday trading.