The next-gen iPhones are en route, and they could feature some considerable changes.
Per a research note published by the well-connected Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities, supply chain sources have indicated that the next iPhone SE could offer 5G cellular connectivity to the entry-priced models while the top tier iPhone switch to a punch hole from the present notch unit at the top of the screen.
According to Kuo’s latest supply chain report, Apple is planning to release a new iPhone SE model in the first half of next year. The 2022 model iPhone SE will be the first entry-priced model to feature 5G, the next-generation cellular standard that debuted with the iPhone 12 series last fall.
Kuo has stated that he believes Apple will retain the current 4.7-inch design that’s modeled after the iPhone 8, but the upcoming iPhone SE could feature a processor upgrade and access to 5G. The iPhone SE currently starts at $399 in the U.S., and is expected to be a major boost to 5G adoption as buyers in this segment of the market replace existing phones.
Kuo has also stated that Apple places to begin replacing the current notch design with a “punch-hole display design” similar to what’s seen on the Samsung Galaxy smartphones. It’s thought that the punch-hold could house a front-facing camera, creating an all-screen design around it. Apple is also expected to upgrade the front-facing camera’s autofocus capabilities for the iPhone 14 series. All iPhones in the lineup could adopt this punch-hole display design if product yields allow, although Kuo hedges and says that at least high-end (presumably Pro) models will adopt it in the second half of next year.
As always, stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via 9to5Mac