Apple’s IPhone to Divide Supplier Winners From Also-Rans
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When Apple Inc. Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook unveils the company’s new smartphone tomorrow, he will also crown the latest winners in the iPhone economy.
For makers of screens to suppliers of power amplifiers, the iPhone serves as a trophy for companies in the behind-the-scenes business of supplying Apple with components for its devices. With $171 billion in sales in its last fiscal year -- on par with the gross domestic product of Vietnam -- Apple plays kingmaker by picking who provides semiconductors, graphics processors and other parts, helping to determine the fate of companies from California to China.