Aug 4 - Apple Inc is working with more Chinese suppliers to produce its latest iPhones, the Nikkei newspaper reported on Wednesday, as a tech feud that stems from a trade war with China prompts Beijing to strengthen domestic firms.
Luxshare Precision Industry Co Ltd is likely to build up to 3% of the iPhone 13 series and two firms it acquired last year will supply key components and parts for the latest iPhones, the paper said citing sources familiar with the matter.
Lens Tech Co Ltd will supply metal casings and BOE Tech Group Co Ltd will provide rear lens lenses, the paper said on its website, with Sunny Optical Tech Group Co Ltd also supplying components.
Luxshare has won orders over its Taiwanese rivals Foxconn and Pegatron Corp, and will begin building the iPhone 13 Pro this month, the paper said.
Reuters reported that Foxconn set up a task force to fight the growing clout of Chinese electronics manufacturer Luxshare to study it the company was supported by any Chinese government entity, among other concerns.
Last month, Apple forecast slowering revenue growth as a global chip shortage begins to affect iPhone production.