iPhone 6 With 6-Inch Screen In Testing [REPORT]

Those pesky iPhone 6 rumors about a handset with a much larger screen just won’t go away—even as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) prepares to release the smaller, potentially much less interesting iPhone 5S. The unveiling of the new flagship handset is expected to happen on Tuesday at the company’s planned media event. The iPhone 5C, a low cost version of the handset, is also expected to be unveiled at the event.

Renewed rumors about a bigger iPhone 6

Earlier this year, we heard reports that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) was testing larger screens for its iPhones. Of course those reports fed right into the expectation that the iPhone 6 would be out this year, but since then it has become more obvious that we’ll see the iPhone 5S this year. But now those reports of a bigger screen for the iPhone 6 have been renewed by Ian Sherr, Eva Dou and Lorraine Luk of The Wall Street Journal.

According to their sources, Apple is now “evaluating a plan” for iPhones with screens between 4.8 inches and 6 inches in size. At this point it isn’t clear if the company will begin offering handsets in a variety of sizes or offering more than just the two new handsets every year. This year is expected to be the first time the company releases more than one new handset since the low cost model could accompany the iPhone 5S. Both handsets unveiled on Tuesday will likely have the same 4-inch screen as the iPhone 5.

Apple testing different screen sizes

Apple has been known to test a variety of devices before choosing one to move forward with. Sources did tell The Wall Street Journal though, that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) now “appears more willing to move ahead in years past.” Component suppliers say Apple started testing larger iPhone screens in the past couple of months and has shown particular interest in the tests run on a 4.8-inch screen.

If Apple begins offering multiple screen sizes with the iPhone 6, it would be similar to the approach the company took to the iPod later in that product line’s life. Also it would enable the company to better address areas of the market that it currently doesn’t address, like smartphone users who want bigger screens. In particular, an iPhone 6 with a bigger screen could help Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) battle Samsung in Asia where Samsung dominates Apple.