Rumor: Apple looking into waterproof materials, antenna-concealing design for iPhone 7

If this is true, it could definitely help where your next-gen iPhone is concerned.

A new rumor has it that Catcher Technologies will help supply chassis components for upcoming iPhones said to be both waterproof and use “new compound materials” to conceal their antennas, according to a new rumor.

Catcher is said to be likely to supply 30 to 50 percent chassis shipments for the new hardware, thereby placing the company as Apple’s largest chassis partner.

Where the idea of a waterproof iPhone has been rumored before, this is the first rumor to incorporate the idea of antenna changes. Apple could possibly be looking to blend the antenna into the chassis itself.

The iPhone 6s and 6s Plus are already more water-resistant than their predecessors, thanks to an added gasket and various silicone seals. Going waterproof, though, would involve a thorough redesign, including figuring out how to seal off ports, switches, and buttons.

This rumor could also be consistent with notions that Apple might be looking towards a non-metallic classic. Since the iPhone 5 Apple has tended towards an all-aluminum design, but other materials might improve structural stability and/or reduce manufacturing costs. Apple in fact adopted tougher 7000-series aluminum for the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, but presumably at extra expense.

Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.

Via AppleInsider and DigiTimes