Apple is expected to take the wraps off its new 4-inch smartphone, likely to be called iPhone 5se, next month. Ahead of the official unveiling, 9to5Mac has obtained iPhone 5se schematics from accessories makers, revealing its design. The schematics suggest that the new phone will be nearly identical to the iPhone 5S, with two small design changes.
iPhone 5se schematics show slightly curved edges
The diagrams indicate that the power/sleep/wake button has been relocated from the top edge to the right upper edge of the device. The new phone measures 123.8mm tall, 58.6mm wide, and 7.6mm thick. The schematic shows a very subtle curvature on the edges of the phone. The seams between the glass panel and body are curved, but the curves as not as profound as the sides of the iPhone 6 or 6S.
9to5Mac says there would be no protruding rear camera in the iPhone 5se. However, the iPhone 5se schematics released by French publication iGeneration contradict that of 9to5Mac. Though iGeneration shows curves around the edges, it still has the power button at the top of the device. It also shows a small camera bump, while 9to5Mac says the iPhone 5se camera matches that of the iPhone 5S.
iPhone 5se to have TouchID support
The iPhone 5se will reportedly be available in rose gold, silver, space grey, and gold color options. The device will boast of A9 processor, Live Photos support, an improved camera setup, and NFC for Apple Pay. Sources told 9to5Mac that it will be available in 16GB and 64GB storage options. Though the renders do not show the TouchID home button, it will have TouchID support.
Apple is said to unveil the iPhone 5se alongside the iPad Air 3 and new Apple Watch at a special event on March 15. The phone will go on sale just three days later on March 18. Accessories makers try hard to nail down design of products ahead of their official launches because being first to the accessories market can significantly boost revenues.