By Josh Ong

Published: 02:15 AM EST (11:15 PM PST)

A new report claims Apple suppliers will begin production of its next-generation iPhone, which will feature a faster processor but few changes to its look, in July for a launch that will likely occur in September of this year.

Citing three people familiar with the matter, Reuters reported on Wednesday that Apple's next iPhone will arrive in September. The device will allegedly boast a faster processor while looking "largely similar to the iPhone 4," the report read, without providing further details.

Reuters' sources roughly corroborate a recent note from Concorde Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo told AppleInsider earlier this week that Apple's so-called iPhone 5 would go into mass production in September.

Kuo's checks with the supply chain indicate the that iPhone 5 will include the faster A5 processor currently found in the iPad 2 and an 8-megapixel rear camera. He has also been told that the next-generation smartphone would sport a Qualcomm baseband for both GSM and CDMA models and make use of an improved antenna design.

Previous reports had also suggested that Apple would push the release of the next iPhone past the summer. In years past, Apple has released a new iPhone every summer since the first-generation iPhone launched in 2007.

Last week, sources at touch panel makers told DigiTimes that Apple had yet to release a production roadmap for the iPhone 5, making a summer launch unlikely.

It has been suggested that supply disruption related to the Japan earthquake in March has contributed to the rumored delays. Others point to a "major overhaul" as the reason for the prolonged release, though that appears to conflict with Wednesday's rumor.

Avian Securities has also echoed reports of a September launch for the iPhone 5. A recent client noted from analyst Brian White of Ticonderoga Securities said that Asian sources believe the iPhone 5 is on track for an October launch in china.