When the iPhone 12 is released, it will likely feature an upgraded camera lens, but a delay in the supply of new hardware to Apple's assembly line may make a later-than-expected launch inevitable.

The news comes from AppleInsider, which obtained an investor memo written by respected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo claims that lens manufacturer Largan will begin shipping "high-end" lenses to Apple in mid-July for use in the iPhone 12's rear camera module.

We had previously heard from Kuo that Apple will use a 7-element lens for the iPhone 12's main camera, an upgrade from the iPhone 11 series' 6-element main lens, telephoto lens, and 5-element ultra-wide lens.

The additional lens elements should improve photo quality by reducing image distortion that occurs when light passes through the lens and enters the camera sensor. It is unclear whether this will apply to all iPhone 12 models or just the two iPhone 12 Pro versions.

The timing of this shipment is further evidence that Apple's iPhone production has been delayed this year. Typically, lens shipments begin 4-6 weeks earlier than this, with shipments peaking in August-October, rather than September-November as projected for this year.

This could mean that Apple's usual September iPhone event will be held in October instead. Otherwise, disappointed customers may find that the iPhone devices are not good enough.

Previous rumors said that the iPhone 12's other major camera changes would include the addition of a LiDAR depth sensor to the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max, and that the new A14 chipset would allow 4K video recording at up to 240 fps.

Also of note are new screen size options of 5.4", 6.1", and 6.7", depending on the model. It is also possible that all four models will have OLED displays, and two iPhone 12 Pro models will have 5G connectivity and 120Hz displays, but this last detail seems more uncertain now, according to recent rumors.