Since the first iPhone became a coveted, line-up-to-get-one device, Apple has been accused of deliberately creating shortages in order to fuel reports of retail sell-outs and clamoring customers. But the company that actually manufactures the iPhone 5 says that in this case, the device’s design is what is keeping it from some consumers.

Without going into specifics, the Chairman of Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. (better known as Foxconn) told reporters earlier today that design-related production issues are resulting in “far fewer” iPhone 5s rolling off the assembly line than what Apple has ordered.

Hon Hai would also not speculate on when these issues might be resolved, thus cutting down on the delays that have had some customers waiting weeks.

“Market demand is very strong, but we just can’t really fulfill Apple’s requests,” said the company’s Chairman Terry Gou.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple’s inability to meet consumer demand for the iPhone 5 has hurt the company’s stock price.

Some Consumerist readers have told us they have defected from AT&T and Verizon to Sprint because the smaller carrier reportedly still has an available inventory of the iPhone 5. However, we’ve also heard about some Sprint stores forcing iPhone 5 buyers into purchasing add-on items.

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