The iPhone 6, Galaxy S5, and Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG)’s Nexus 6 are among the most anticipated smartphones of 2014. Smartphone penetration has reached 65% in the U.S at the end of 2013. Many people haven’t upgraded their devices for more than two years, and might consider upgrading their smartphones this year. Apart from features and brand value, the release date of the respective smartphones will also play a crucial role in deciding which one to buy.
So, let’s have a look at the three most anticipated smartphones of this year:
Apple iPhone 6
Rumors around the iPhone 6 screen size agree that it’s almost certain to sport a bigger display between 4.7 inches and 5.7 inches. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has been upgrading its iPhones since the tech giant unveiled the first iPhone in 2006. So, we expect the company to release the iPhone 6 this year. Analysts expect the Cupertino-based tech giant to unveil the iPhone 6 in September 2014.
The iPhone 6 is rumored to have a bigger display, and some design changes to accommodate the larger display. NPD Display research recently reported that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is testing two different screen sizes for the iPhone 6. Other expected features of the device include an updated iOS 8, an improved camera with Lytro-style refocusing capabilities, a revamped A8 processor and increased 128GB storage.
Samsung Galaxy S5
The Korean electronics giant has gone Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s way in upgrading its flagship smartphone every year. The Galaxy S5 is likely to be unveiled in March this year. The wildly popular Galaxy S3 hit the markets in May 2012, but the Galaxy S4 was unveiled in March last year. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.(ADR) (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930) may either hold a separate event or launch the Galaxy S5 at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
The Galaxy S5 is highly likely to see some significant design changes, according to a senior Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.(ADR) (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930) executive. The device is expected to come in two versions, one with usual plastic body and another will sport a scratch-proof metal casing. The Galaxy S5 may also feature the latest Android 4.4 Kit Kat, a 64-bit Exynos processor, a curved screen and a 16MP camera with ISOCELL technology. One of the most rumored specs of the Galaxy S5 is its battery, which could be 4000mAh.
Google Nexus 6
The Nexus 4 and Nexus 5 have been praised for their build quality, features and relatively lower price. Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) is likely to continue its partnership with LG Electronics Inc. (KRX:066570) to manufacture the Nexus 6. The search engine giant is still unveiling the Nexus 5 in many international markets. So, we still do not have much information about the Nexus 6 yet.
But rumors indicate that the device will have a 6-inch screen. Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) is unlikely to move away from LG Electronics Inc. (KRX:066570), given their successful partnership with Nexus 4 and Nexus 5.
