Reuters and WSJ also confirm big Apple event for September 12, component prepayment indicates major announcements
UPDATE: Bloomberg also confirms the big September 12 for the launch of the new iPhone, rehashing that it will have a larger screen and thinner body.
The additional $1.12 billion Apple spent to secure inventory components to the largest amount in four years, indicating an aggressive launch schedule for the holidays. Of course, this year is not like the others so far, as we have the Android march at full swing with Samsung taking no prisoners, and Windows 8 with its RT tablet version launching with numerous products which might encroach on Apple's turf, so Cupertino is sure to take measures.
Adding even more credibility to the "save the date" stories, Reuters straight out confirmed in its turn that its own source pinned September 12 for a major Apple event, yet said the date is tentative for now and may shift. Couple those with our own insider story that retailers are prepping for September 21 start of sales for the new iGadgets, fitting the usual 9-10 days timeframe that Apple does between an announcement and a release, and the puzzle pieces are falling well together.
Things that are NOT allowed: