The iPhone 7 is in the rumor mill again, but this time with reports from credible sources. One report says Apple could launch three versions of the iPhone next year, including a much-rumored 4-inch model. Though Apple has historically launched new iPhones in the month of September, the traditional release cycle may change in 2016 with the iPhone 7.
iPhone 7 to have a whole new design
A “reliable source” who has provided accurate information in the past about Apple’s future product plans told Apple Insider that the iPhone 7 could debut earlier than expected. Though it’s unclear exactly how early the device might launch, the source said Apple is set to complete the iPhone 7 development cycle faster than in previous years. The 2016 flagship iPhone is expected to feature an entirely new design.
In a separate report, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the Cupertino-based tech giant was also working on a 4-inch iPhone that will enter mass production in the first half of 2016. Kuo has an exceptional track record when it comes to revealing Apple’s future product plans. He accurately predicted the 12-inch MacBook, the iPad Pro, and every major feature of the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus.
Apple may sell up to 30 million units of 4-inch iPhone
Kuo believes that Apple will market the 4-inch device as a ‘budget’ model. The company could ship between 20 million and 30 million units of the phone through the end of 2016. According to Kuo, the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus will enter production in the third quarter of 2016. The KGI Securities analyst said the 4-inch iPhone is likely to sport a metal casing and A9 processor. However, this model won’t feature 3D Touch. The analyst believes Foxconn will be the sole manufacturer of the 4-inch variant.
Sources told Ming-Chi Kuo that Apple will increase the RAM in iPhone 7 Plus to 3GB, from 2GB in the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus. The 3GB RAM will be exclusive to the 5.5-inch model. The standard iPhone 7 will feature 2GB RAM with A10 SoC produced by Samsung, Intel, and TSMC.
