Coronavirus is threatening the electronic industry, and it's worse than you think

On top of the obvious concerns over the loss of human life and disruptions to daily routines, the growing coronavirus crisis could soon wreak havoc in the global electronics industry. Personnel shortages and delayed reopening of currently shuttered plants could reduce production of electronics parts such as memories and displays, as well as consumer electronic products such as smartphones.

Online reports and information from industry analysts revealed that Wuhan-the city at the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak-is a vital cog in China's leading global role in electronics industry production of both subassemblies and finished goods for leading companies. There's perhaps no better example than Apple, which produces iPhones in China. Analysts at IHS Markit technology research, a part of Informa Tech, and at IDC said the coronavirus could create supply-chain problems for Apple and other smartphone makers that could disrupt overall shipments.

Industry analysts note that many smartphone chips are fabricated in Taiwan and China. With Wuhan and other major Chinese cities restricting travel in an effort to contain the virus, workers could be prevented from reporting to their jobs.

Source: https://www.fierceelectronics.com/electronics/coronavirus-could-cripple-electronics-industry