iPhone 5S delay caused by fingerprint scanner?

iPhone 5S rumor suggests that a demand for fingerprint-scanning tech could push back the device's launch date

As we move a day closer to the proposed Apple iPhone 5S release date a little more light has supposedly been shed on what could be responsible for the device’s delay.

Yesterday it was reported that personnel issues within Apple’s manufacturing partners were likely responsible for the delay of the iPhone 6 and, potentially, the iPhone 5S, but today a new source has suggested that any delays on the 5S are likely to be caused by Apple’s desire to include new fingerprint sensing technology within the device.

The iPhone 5S had been pencilled in for a summer 2013 release but there have been myriad rumors regarding setbacks for the device and others planned by Apple for the next 12 months. It is now suggested that the incremental update to the iPhone 5 may be facing a delay to the autumn at the very earliest.

The device is due to feature a number of upgrades, including a newer, more power-sensitive processor, updated camera and improved software in the form of iOS 7 – if it’s ready in time – but the addition of a fingerprint scanner with which to secure customers data would be a real coup for Apple, a company that has been lambasted for its lack of innovation in recent years.

Recently the Cupertino, Calif.-based company has been placed under the microscope after its stock fell more than 40 percent, and there is concern that the company’s latest earnings figures will be unexceptional. This means any delays to upcoming hardware could prove to be a major blow to the world’s favorite tech company.

The problems aren’t limited to the boardroom, either. It has been revealed that industry sources in the Far East have taken to referring to the company as ‘Poison Apple’ due to its high demands and expectations.

Whatever the issue is with current manufacturers and suppliers, Apple is going to have to pull its collective thumb out to get the iPhone 5S to market before a rapidly cooling fan base decides to take its loyal dollars and cents elsewhere.