The iPhone 6c was set to arrive in stores in 2016, but according to a new report, it is possible that the handset, which is 4-inches in size, will be launched before the end of this year.

There have been rumors coming from China, that the new iPhone, made of plastic, may be limiting the supply of Sony's camera sensors, which are very popular.

Apple's demand for the sensors is so large that there may not be enough camera modules left for the remainder of the electronics industry.

Chinese analysts, including Sun Changxu, who is the chief analyst at Electronic system Design China, have concluded that at least 50 percent of local mobile phones will not be able to get a camera module from the company.

Because of this, other companies, including Samsung, Toshiba and OmniVision are offering alternatives.

The report does not specifically mention the iPhone 6c, but some analysts do confirm that the new phone could be the cause of this issue. If this is true, then it follows that Apple must be preparing itself for the phone's launch sometime soon.

The iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus will likely also have Sony sensors and the fact that all three of the phones will be launched this year is causing the limited supply.

Whatever the case, whenever the iPhone 6c does arrive, it seems that it will feature a great camera.

Leaked images of the 6c show a differently shaped camera flash, as well as more holes on the bottom of the phone for the speaker.

The photos were shared by FutureSupplier, a wholesaler for cell phone parts in China.