Apple reportedly plans to wait until at least 2020 before releasing an iPhone compatible with 5G networks.
The vendor plans to hold off on the launch of 5G devices for up to a year following the initial deployment of 5G networks, unnamed sources told Bloomberg.
Apple followed a similar strategy with the launch of 3G and 4G networks due to predictions that the new networks would initially face problems such as spotty coverage, dampening consumer enthusiasm for making the switch.
The report also suggests that Apple's decision may be related to its ongoing feud with Qualcomm, which already has 5G chipsets available. Apple's alternative supplier Intel does not plan to have 5G chips available in time to support the devices that will launch in 2019.
But the rumored decision could open the door for Apple's rivals such as Samsung to get a jump on capturing the 5G market.
The major improvements that 5G are expected to deliver over 4G, compared to 4G over 3G, could also become a significant selling point for the 2019 crop of devices.