Perceived to be an accident, Apple posted an iPhone photo with a Touch ID similar to the current iPhone 5c version, fuelling speculations that an imminent C model is going to be released. Further, the rumored iPhone 6s, or iPhone 7, is confirmed to have 2 GB of RAM, raised minimum storage capacity to 32 GB, and an FPC-made Force Touch.
4-inch iPhone 7?
Apple reportedly posted a photo of an unknown iPhone version on its Apple Store, which looked similar to the iPhone 5c only that it clearly had a Touch ID fingerprint sensor. The current 5c version has no Touch ID, hence, speculations point to its successor - the "heavily rumored iPhone 6c" or as others call iPhone 7c.
This implies a big possibility that Apple is going to continue their "budget" C range with 4-inch displays, and it will definitely get ample upgrades on its specifications. It should be noted that the current iPhone 5c is based on the iPhone 5, therefore, buyers can expect that the iPhone 6c is going to have its specs built from the iPhone 5s. This would mean a doubled performance, improved camera, and a jump to 64-bit chipset.
Further, users can expect a budget-friendly iPhone 6c with Touch ID fingerprint sensor and Apple Pay.
The photo was then removed by Apple, but the company did not discredit the photo, implying a "strong sign of authenticity," Forbes said.
Report confirms 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB minimum storage, and Force Touch in iPhone 6s or iPhone 7
A new report coming from TrendForce confirmed rumors and analyst notes that Apple is going to include 2 GB of RAM and Force Touch sensors in the next-generation iPhone, speculated to be iPhone 6s or iPhone 7. Besides these, the device is also going to have a raise of its minimum storage capacity, from 16 GB to 32 GB.
According to the publication, "The biggest highlight for the next iPhone is the mobile DRAM upgrade from LPDDR3 to LPDDR4. The memory capacity per iPhone has also doubled from 1GB to 2GB."
They also said, "The next iPhone is very likely to have its minimum storage capacity raised from 16GB to 32GB, so their storage options would range from 32GB and 64GB to 128GB."
Further, it stated that the Force Touch technology in the iPhone 6s or iPhone 7 is going to have a "flexible printed circuit (FPC) that is located under the LCD module." They said, "The Force Touch module will be a notable improvement in the smartphone touch displays as it adds many potential functions. The design of this new touch technology is likely to have a flexible printed circuit (FPC) that is located under the LCD module to control the sensor."
This is akin to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo's tip that "the next generation iPhone will have a FPC-made capacitive Force Touch sensor under the backlight, laminated with metal shielding." This is said to be "significant enough for Apple to call it's next iPhone the 'iPhone 7' instead of the so-called 'iPhone 6s.'"
As for its release date, recent rumors said that the iPhone 6s or iPhone 7 could be rolled out as early as August. If not, September 8 is more likely.
Rounding up these latest reveals, it seems that three iPhone models are going to be released this year. However, it's not certain if Apple would include the Force Touch in the iPhone 6c as it is intended to be a budget-friendly phone. Either of the three iPhone product lines could be released:
- iPhone 7c, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus if Ming-Chi Kuo's prediction about the naming scheme turns out as it is.
- iPhone 6c, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus if Apple decides to maintain its naming scheme.
- iPhone 6c, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus due to uncertainties if Force Touch would be included in the c version.
Apple has yet to make official statement about their upcoming iPhone. Hence, everything should be taken with a grain of salt.
What iPhone product lines will Apple release? Send in your comments and let us know.
Join the Conversation