With so much anticipation building up around the new iPhone 8, another speculation has been floating around that the new handset will be dubbed as “Edition”. As per a media report, the new ‘iPhone X’ is reportedly being launched along with two other devices- iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 plus (tweaked version).
Apple is shrinking the top and bottom bezels to make iPhone 8 smaller than the iPhone 7 plus, as per financial newspaper Nikkei. However, amid all the recent leaks, the biggest shocker is the price of the phone $1000 (USD), which distinguishes the handset as the most expensive (when it is launched). Which also means that it will at least 25 percent more expensive than its predecessors.
A report by MacRumors mentions unnamed supply chain analysts for the launch timeline, and notes that invites for ‘an event’ are not released yet and Apple could send the invites soon and hold an event later than expected or make an announcement via a press release, the report speculates.
More Apple Products Coming
Earlier, Apple had delayed its March launch event, for new iPad models till May or June, while another sketchy report had indicated that the iPad launch event will be held on April 4. However, as we mentioned the March event was rumoured to feature a Red iPhone 7, a 128GB iPhone SE, and three new iPad Pro models – 9.7-inch, 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch display sizes.
The Cupertino-based company is also reportedly working on new connector type accessories for the iPhone, iPad and other devices through its official Made-for-iPhone (MFi) licensing program, called Ultra Accessory Connector. The eight pin connector will be thicker and wider than both USB-C and Lighting.
Cost soaring to another level
While people are still excited about the phone, many are baffled about the cost of the new iPhone as it is expected to range around $1000 (USD). A sudden surge in the handset’s price is predominantly due to the company’s radical decision of switching phone screens from Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) to Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED).
Manufacturing OLED panels is a complicated process, but is cheaper and has better viewing angles. However, the battery consumption might still be an issue, as LCD uses lesser power than OLEDs.
Demands and Expectations
As per a recent survey, Apple iPhone 8 expectations are high when benchmarked. In a group of 502 people in the U.S. last week, 23% said yes to upgrade their handsets to iPhone 8.
Compared to the previous generation iPhone, where 15% intended to upgrade, the survey definitely shows a peak in interest within the consumers.
Besides, the rumoured detailing and tweaking seem promising but for now we’re all holding for the phone to launch.
Image Source: Ovalpicture.com / Design: Yasser Farahi
