Apple iWatch production could be pushed back to November

Apple could push production of its iWatch back to November as speculation about the firm's first wearable tech device continues.

"We have pushed back our estimated time of iWatch mass production from late-September to mid-/ late- November," KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said in a research note, according to 9to5 Mac.

"We also lower our forecast of iWatch 2014 shipments by 40 per cent to 3 million units."

The analyst firm initially predicted Apple could shift 10 million units by the end of this year.

This report contradicts sources, who told Reuters the device would be ready to go into production in July.

Specifications of Apple's iWatch remain unknown. It is tipped to have a 2.5in touch screen, which arcs around the wristband and wireless charging capabilities as standard.

The wearable is expected to sync with Apple's Healthkit app and measure key metrics like heart rate, calories burnt, steps taken and quality of sleep. By pairing with iPhones, the iWatch will be able to showcase alerts and message notifications.

Reports in July 2013 suggested Apple was hampered by a number of engineering issues ranging from problems with the display to battery life. At the time Apple was believed to be 12 months away from a final product.

However, the recent hiring of a sales director from Tag Heuer suggests a launch event is likely to occur later this year, with many expecting the device to be unveiled in October.