The iPhone 12 series has turned out to be one of the most popular in recent years. But the next generation is slowly coming into focus. Below we summarize all the rumors surrounding the iPhone 2021.
Although the next iPhone is still a few months away, so many rumors have accumulated on the subject that this article is actually appropriate now. So I'll summarize what we know so far.
iPhone 2021 – What will it be called?
Let’s start with the name. While some fans actually believe that Apple will introduce the iPhone 13 this year, I have to admit that I doubt it very much. In addition to rumors, I also believe that Apple will not skip the S line this year but will introduce the iPhone 12S. Although Apple has already skipped the S line twice, that does not mean that Cupertino will take this step every year. In addition, there are insider reports that the company internally considers the upcoming device to be an S model. Accordingly, the iPhone 12S series is expected to be introduced in fall 2021.
iPhone 2021 – The Design
With the iPhone 12, the design of the devices has been fundamentally revised. The square casing has long been desired by fans and was a perfect fit. Of course, there is a small part of the community that prefers the round casing. But for them, the iPhone 11 series would be a good choice. Since we assume that Apple will introduce an S-Line, there are unlikely to be any changes to the casing.
How many models will Apple introduce?
If current reports are to be believed, this year's lineup will most likely consist of four models again. Accordingly, the whole thing could look like this:
- 5.4-inch: iPhone 12S mini
- 6.1-inch: iPhone 12S
- 6.1-inch: iPhone 12S Pro
- 6.7-inch: iPhone 12S Pro Max
According to the current status, a deviation is not to be expected.
iPhone 2021 – Will the display technology be revised?
Since the iPhone 12, all devices have an OLED panel. But none of these models have a ProMotion display. However, if reports that have been with us for several months are correct, Apple will at least give the two Pro models a new display with LTPO technology. These devices would then be able to offer variable refresh rates. We are talking about the desired 120Hz panels. The same technology is currently used in the Apple Watch and enables an always-on display. Accordingly, the feature could also be included in this year's iPhone, even if many users see it as unnecessary.
More power thanks to an even better processor
Like every year, Apple will introduce a new processor this fall. If the company maintains its previous tradition, it can be assumed that the iPhone 12S will be equipped with the so-called A15 chip. An increase in performance and improved energy efficiency are to be expected.
iPhone 12S – The Camera
In addition to the display, the camera could also be revised once again. There are currently rumors that the LiDAR scanner will be installed in the two cheaper devices in addition to the Pro models. There is also the possibility that the sensor-shift stabilization technology known from the iPhone 12 Pro Max will be installed in at least the smaller Pro model. However, there are sources who believe that the feature will also be placed in the two cheaper models. However, no further adjustments are to be expected.
iPhone 2021 – Will the battery be redesigned?
Anyone who is concerned about the battery life may be disappointed. There are currently no concrete details. It remains to be seen whether Apple will increase the battery size again this year or whether it will continue to optimize the software. However, by using LTPO technology in the display, the 120Hz panels should work more energy efficiently, which is why the battery does not necessarily have to be increased in size.
iPhone 2021 – 5G changes and connection
But what about the Lightning port and 5G connectivity? This could actually change things. According to rumors, Apple is planning to expand mmWave technology to more countries this year in addition to sub-6GHz. As a reminder: There are two main 5G standards known as sub-6HGz and mmWave 5G. Sub-6GHz is slower than mmWave 5G technology, but it has a longer range - suitable for rural areas. Since mmWave is faster but has a shorter range, this technology is more intended for large cities or urban areas. In addition, MagSafe chargers and Qi charging stations could become even more important this year. There have already been increasing reports that at least one iPhone will be released this year without a charging port. This device would therefore rely on Apple's MagSafe chargers or standard wireless charging stations. Anyone hoping for a switch to USB-C will probably be disappointed. This is now considered rather unlikely.
Smaller notch and return of Touch ID
But now let's get to the two most important rumors. Like every year, this year it is claimed that the notch will be made smaller. Unlike in previous years, however, this could actually happen. However, reports about the notch should still be treated with caution. In addition, at least one iPhone is said to have Face ID and Touch ID under the display. If Ming-Chi Kuo is right, the fingerprint sensor would make a comeback this year. A corresponding prediction was made back in 2019. In view of the current reports, this could actually happen now.
iPhone 12S – How much do the new iPhones cost?
This question is also discussed every year in advance. There is no definitive answer to this. However, since it is most likely an S-Line, the new generation will be priced the same as the current one. If Apple does actually increase prices, this would certainly be a surprise. It can therefore be assumed that the starting price will be 799 euros. There could, however, be an innovation in the area of storage capacity. It is claimed that Apple is considering introducing one terabyte of storage. In terms of release, it is expected that the devices will be announced in the fall as usual. September is certainly a hot candidate here. (Image: Apple)