iPhone 5S: Analyst Predicts Launch Date and Sales Figures of Next Gen Apple Smartphone

Apple's next generation iPhone is rumored to launch in August by some, while many others claim that the smartphone will come pretty sooner. Apple is likely to bring out the next iPhone in Summer this year according to Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster.

According to a CNET report, in a recent investors note, Munster said that Apple will launch the iPhone 5S in late June. He also predicts that Apple will sell 4 million units before the end of the month. As for total iPhone sales, he expects those to be around 30 million by the end the June quarter.

Click here for more iPhone 5S concept images...

Click here for more iPhone 5S concept images...

Similar to most analysts and Apple watchers, Munster expects the phone to include a faster processor, better camera and new software features tied into the hardware. He thinks there is a chance for the 5S to come with NFC chip to open the door for mobile payments.

Going by ongoing rumors, Apple's acquisition of security technology provider AuthenTec in 2012 could lead to a biometric security feature aka fingerprint reader for the 5S. But Munster assumes that such a feature is more likely to debut with the iPhone 6 instead of the 5S.

An act from Apple will come in the September quarter when the analyst expects to see the launch of the much-rumored low-cost iPhone, which is targeted for emerging markets to help Apple tap into the low-cost smartphone market. Furthermore, Munster pegs the unlocked price of a low-cost iPhone at $250 (approx. Rs 13,500).