Both Japan and China may only get Apple's next-generation iPhones on Sept. 25, a week after they're commonly expected to ship in the U.S. and several other countries, a report said on Tuesday.
The Japanese launch date was changed from the 18th to the 25th, according to local news site Macotakara. China was not a first-wave country for the iPhone 6, but its growing importance to Apple profits could have lent itself to that position this year.
Japan however was a first-wave country in 2014. If Apple has in fact delayed a launch in the region, that could signal that Apple wants more stock available for other areas, including the core U.S. market.
Apple is scheduled to host a special press event on Wednesday, where it's expected to show off two new iPhones, commonly referred to as the 6s and 6s Plus. Recent rumors have pointed to a Sept. 18 launch, which would be consistent with normal Apple timetables.
Preorders could start on Sept. 11.
The new phones may carry upgrades like A9 processors, 2 gigabytes of RAM, tougher aluminum, and improved front- and rear-facing cameras. Some version of Force Touch could also make it to the devices, migrating from Macs and the Apple Watch for the first time.