Rumor: Apple to begin mass production of 4.7-inch model iPhone 6 in July, 5.5-inch model in August

Apple’s iPhone 6 could start seeing mass production this month and next month, depending on the model in question.

Per Taiwan’s Economic Daily News and AppleInsider, Apple supplier Foxconn will begin production of the 4.7-inch iPhone 6 in the third week of July while a rumored 5.5-inch model is to hit the assembly line in the second week of August.

The publication noted a separate Chinese news service report that said the head of China’s Henan Provincial Commerce Department made comments that Hon Hai, better known as Foxconn, is looking to hire some 100,000 workers to cope with expectedly high demand for the upcoming handsets. That figure echoes a previous rumor from June, but today’s report adds partner supplier Pegatron is also preparing to hire some 10,000 employees for its part of Apple’s order.

Along with the influx of new workers, Foxconn is expected to install automated robots called “Foxbots” on the iPhone 6 assembly line to perform non-critical tasks like locking screws and polishing parts.

Apple is expected to launch both handsets by the end of 2014, though release of the larger 5.5-inch “phablet” version may be delayed due to production difficulties. With Foxconn reportedly starting production nearly one month after the 4.7-inch iPhone, Apple is either looking at a staggered release, or does not expect equal demand the two variations.

Recent rumors have already guessed at a launch date on either Sept. 25 or Sept. 19, though it is unclear if the larger model will be ready in time for simultaneous release.

Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.