Recent rumors suggest that Apple is working on the release of two larger iPhone models, which could hit the shelves later this year. Further details, published in Taiwan’s Economic Daily News, suggest that the two 4.7” and 5.6” models may not be marketed under the existing iPhone brand, but rather be released under a new name.
Although information on hardware specifications are often leaked, and do sometimes prove to be accurate, it is far more unusual for those down the supply chain to obtain details on Apple’s branding. This means that the reports at this point are just based on speculation and not on insider knowledge by suppliers.
The reports have stated that Apple’s larger 5.6-in iOS based “non-iPhone” is an “experimental” device, possibly with Apple testing the waters for branching out their brand further in the future. The larger model is said to feature sapphire glass, supplied by GT Advanced Technologies, with whom Apple signed a $578 million deal with late last year.
The scratch-resistant sapphire glass material is second only to diamond in terms of hardness, and is deemed almost unbreakable. However, this rumored upgrade from the current Gorilla Glass has been criticized for being around 67% heavier, as well as causing a huge increase in production cost.
“The arrival of sapphire means a dramatic increase in the cost of making an iPhone, as sapphire is far more expensive than the present Gorilla Glass, but it remains unknown whether the price of a single iPhone will go up.” reported the South China Morning Post, who cited “industry insiders” who have allegedly seen the prototypes.
However, while these new up-scaled “iPhones” would undoubtedly prove popular, particularly with those using their devices to access entertainment, apps and top online games at Royal Vegas and other game sites, there have been some serious doubts cast over the rumors.
Other sources have claimed that the new Apple handsets would feature a 441-ppi pixel density. If Apple were to retain the 16:9 screen aspect ratio that they currently provide with their iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c and iPhone 5 models, then this figure would be off by eight pixels. It is highly unlikely that Apple would lower their pixel density for a new release.
The increased screen size remains a likely possibility though. Market trends have been moving towards ‘phablets’ and devices with larger screens for some time now. Citing the fact that Apple will still want its handsets to be able to be used single-handedly, credible rumors are placing their bets on an iPhone display of under 5 inches.
No official information on specs, price or name have yet to be announced, but it is claimed that the so-called “iPhone 6” will be released in the third quarter of this year.
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