Rumors about the 2020 iPhone series have been circulating wildly in recent days and reports suggest that there could be up to five new smartphone models from Apple, with the manufacturer potentially taking on the spring and fall release structure that is popular with many Android brands.
Several industry experts have detailed their predictions for the 2020 iPhone release cycle, TF International Securities, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the five 2020 iPhone models may include two standard models and two Pro models, which may all support 5G connectivity, as well a new budget SE model, which will likely be smaller in size and not support 5G. The iPhone SE 2 could the first in the release cycle, with rumors suggesting it have a design like an iPhone 8 and a $399 price tag.
Check out the potential device lineup and specs below.
– 4.7-inch iPhone SE 2: LCD display, single-lens rear camera, no 5G support
Ming-Chi Kuo 2020 iPhone line up predictions, MacRumors
– 5.4-inch iPhone 12: OLED display, dual-lens rear camera, 5G support
– 6.1-inch iPhone 12: OLED display, dual-lens rear camera, 5G support
– 6.1-inch iPhone 12 Pro: OLED display, triple-lens rear camera, 5G support
– 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max: OLED display, triple-lens rear camera, 5G support
Reports from JPMorgan analyst, Samik Chatterjee coincide with Kuo’s prediction, suggesting that there will likely be four 2020 iPhone models, powered by 5G and that Apple may stagger its smartphone launches throughout the year instead of having one major fall launch. The strategy may allow Apple to test products in the market and get consumer feedback to fix any issues before releasing more, likely higher-end models.
2020 iPhone expected features
Recent news from other players in the mobile industry may also back up the 5G claims, Qualcomm president Cristiano Amon, confirming at last week’s Snapdragon Tech Summit that the semiconductor manufacturer will be working closely with Apple on 5G in the coming year. Qualcomm is expected to supply its X55 modem and RF module to enable 5G on upcoming iPhones.
Qualcomm may also supply its newly announced “3D Sonic Max” ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for 2020 iPhones, according to the Economic Daily News. This could mean that new iPhones may reintroduce a ToucID authentication option, in addition to FaceID. Apple notably phased out TouchID on the iPhone X in 2017 in favor of facial recognition. Qualcomm has detailed that its new fingerprint sensor has a 17x larger recognition area and can support the recognition of two fingers at a time for improved accuracy.
Finally, reports also suggest that Apple may invest in larger batteries for its 5G powered iPhones. Nikkei Asian Review recently detailed that the supplier, Murata Manufacturing is developing smaller electrical capacitors for upcoming iPhones so the handsets will be able to house larger battery cells.
Though smartphones across the board are still becoming more elaborate, device makers cannot afford to have new models be thicker and harder to handle. Apple smartphones are also known for unpredictable battery life and with 5G support already being a power drainer, the manufacturer will surely be looking to ensure its highest-end devices work as seamlessly as possible.
