It’s been only a few months since Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) launched its iPhone 5S and 5C. But the rumor mill is already busy speculating the features of the next iPhone. This time Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) needs to come up with some game-changing features to stay ahead of its rivals. Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (KRX:005930) (LON:BC94)’s Galaxy S4 and Google Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG)’s Nexus 5 and Moto X have features that clearly outpace the iPhone’s. Moreover, the Korean electronics giant is expected to launch a breakthrough Galaxy S5 early next year.
Some rumors suggest that the iPhone 6 would see only simple improvements to the iPhone 5S. But others indicate that it will have some solid improvements that will give Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) a clear edge over others. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has made several mistakes with its previous devices that the company must avoid with the next iPhone.
A larger display
Even though Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) increased the screen size of its smartphones with the iPhone 5, its screens are still smaller in comparison to Android devices. As consumers increasingly use their smartphones to watch videos and surf the web, they prefer a bigger screen. Reports suggest that the iPhone 6 would sport a larger screen, between 4.8 inches and 5.7 inches.
Edge-to-edge screen
The next iPhone may flaunt an edge-to-edge screen. A new concept design of the iPhone 6 also features a view-lock that allows users to capture videos at different angles. Users can zoom in or out and focus by simply sliding a finger. Media reports also suggest that the next iPhone may have a curved screen, just like LG Electronics’ G Flex and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd (KRX:005930) (LON:BC94)’s Galaxy Round.
3-D gesture control
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) recently acquired motion sensor maker PrimeSense for about $360 million. Its new acquisition could help Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) incorporate 3-D gesture controls into the next iPhone. The motion sensor technology of PrimeSense could add page scrolling on the basis of eye movement and facial recognition. Minyaville says that this technology alone could revolutionize the smartphone landscape.
Revamped TouchID and Siri
TouchID and Siri have been widely criticized for not providing a dependable mode of interaction. The PrimeSence motion sensor technology could give Siri a boost, positioning it very well against Google Now. The TouchID is also likely to see some improvements, and it will be more like a mini trackpad.
No more scratches
The iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 have been criticized for their vulnerability to scratches. But Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) recently invested heavily in a factory making sapphire glass coatings. Sapphire is already used in the TouchID sensor. But the iPhone 6 may see its entire body covered with sapphire coatings, making the device absolutely scratch-proof.
Apple to increase the price of iPhone 6
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has reportedly spent close to $1 billion to add new features and develop the iPhone 6. Costly new materials and breath-taking new features mean the next iPhone may come with a higher price tag. Let’s hope it’s worth the price.
