Rumor: The iPhone might be delayed

Earlier today, Eric Buscemi noted in his daily Newspaper wrap-up that there are rumors circulating that the iPhone might be delayed. This is not even a week after the announced Leopard delay.

LOOPRumors reports that according to Smarthouse News Australia, insiders at Foxconn, the company that manufactures the iPhone for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL), mentioned quality problems that could cause the delay in the original release date of June 11.

According to these reports -- and it's up to you whether you choose to believe them or not -- there are concerns over the device's sturdiness and battery life.

The rumors, I'm sure gain some credibility after the announced Leopard delay especially since the reason Apple gave for the delay is that it needed to divert resources from the project so that it could launch its highly anticipated iPhone on time.

Back then I said regarding the Leopard delay that "I have no doubt that after so many pundits have remarked about the serious consequences an iPhone delay would have on Apple stock, that the company decided to on this strategy." If on top of that the iPhone is delayed, look for a sharp correction in AAPL stock. But fear not, this company and its executives have been in tighter spots. It will rebound.

Update: The iPhone release date of June 29 has been confirmed as of June 3, 2007.