An archive of what we've heard about Apple’s next-generation iPhone 6, including specs, release date rumours, and features
Apple's annual merry-go-round of rumours and speculation seems to start earlier and earlier every generation. Rumours surrounding the iPhone 6 fired up before the iPhone 5S had even been officially announced in September 2013 so that now, as early as January 2014, we already have a boatload of information regarding what the successor model might be like.
Emphasis on the might, of course, because as always Apple is wrapped up tighter than a ridiculously tightly wrapped thing, so until it lets the cat out of the bag we can't know anything for sure.
As with previous models, a big chunk of the rumour pie rather optimistically focuses on the idea the iPhone 6 will be bigger than its predecessors, with a larger display.
Meanwhile, the idea of Apple regularly upgrading its chipsets has become somewhat predictable, in-line with its software. To the extent that, although the company threw a few curveballs with the massive overhaul that was iOS 7 and the upgrade to 64-bit architecture on the A7 chip, we can still confidently say we'll see a boost in power and optimisation, with iOS 8 and the A8 chip bringing these improvements.
Aside from this, there's talk of camera enhancements, solar power, mobile payments, styluses and liquid metal, amongst other things.
Read on to get up to speed with all the latest gossip on Apple's iPhone 6, aka, the iPhone Air, if some theories are to be believed.
Apple's annual merry-go-round of rumours and speculation seems to start earlier and earlier every generation. Rumours surrounding the iPhone 6 fired up before the iPhone 5S had even been officially announced in September 2013 so that now, as early as January 2014, we already have a boatload of information regarding what the successor model might be like.
Emphasis on the might, of course, because as always Apple is wrapped up tighter than a ridiculously tightly wrapped thing, so until it lets the cat out of the bag we can't know anything for sure.
As with previous models, a big chunk of the rumour pie rather optimistically focuses on the idea the iPhone 6 will be bigger than its predecessors, with a larger display.
Meanwhile, the idea of Apple regularly upgrading its chipsets has become somewhat predictable, in-line with its software. To the extent that, although the company threw a few curveballs with the massive overhaul that was iOS 7 and the upgrade to 64-bit architecture on the A7 chip, we can still confidently say we'll see a boost in power and optimisation, with iOS 8 and the A8 chip bringing these improvements.
Aside from this, there's talk of camera enhancements, solar power, mobile payments, styluses and liquid metal, amongst other things.
Read on to get up to speed with all the latest gossip on Apple's iPhone 6, aka, the iPhone Air, if some theories are to be believed.
Display: How Big Is It Going To Be?
We’ve been hearing rumours of two iPhone models for a couple of months now and an analyst has given some more evidence that it’s true. What is different is that both handsets will be launched at different times. According to Chinese analyst Sun Chyang Xu, the iPhone 6 will launch in June with a 4.7-inch screen and then a follow-up iPhone 6 with 5.7-inch display will come later in the year.
The analyst said production will begin next month with full scale manufacturing beginning in May ready for WWDC in June. If Xu's comments are correct it would appear Apple is sticking to its two-handset launches from here on out. 2013 gave us the iPhone 5s and the iPhone 5c, and 2014 is likely to follow suit – just with a normal (but still slightly larger) iPhone and a phablet sized one.
Meanwhile in the US, one analyst claims Apple has now decided on what size screen it will use inside its next-generation iPhone. According to Timothy Arcuri of Cowen and Company, the iPhone 6 – or iPhone Air, as some are calling it – will feature a significantly larger 4.8-inch Retina display.
Updates to iOS are likely to focus on things like iBeacon, Touch ID, and Passbook. Arcuri added that 2013’s iPhone 5s was just the start – or, put another way: the jumping board for this year’s products. In 2014/15 the company will focus more and more on mobile payments, leveraging services like TouchID, iBeacons and the currently (pretty useless) Passbook application.
Arcuri relayed news of the larger panel in a note to investors and claims to have spoken to sources within Apple’s supply chain. In addition to a larger display the iPhone 6 will also featureWi-Fi 802.11ac, as well as a whole host of new software “innovations” inside the company’s next iteration of iOS.Interestingly, Arcuri made no mention of Apple’s rumoured phablet-sized iPhone, however.
Unlike this report from the WSJ, which claims a 4.5-inch handset is near mass production while a bigger device is in “preliminary development.” According to the report both devices will be made of metal and Apple will stop producing plastic handsets like the iPhone 5C. That would make sense after rumours of appalling sales figures for Apple’s “budget” handset.
The report doesn’t have any new details on when either device might hit the market but previous reports have claimed we may see the smaller handset in June and the larger device by September.
In addition to this a report from China in late 2013 – citing Foxconn insiders – suggested there would be two handsets launched later this year. One is said to be a 4.7-inch setup while the other will pack in a 5.7-inch phablet-sized panel. Another detail leaked by the sources is the inclusion of “biometrics” in both handsets, which could mean anything from a fingerprint scanner to something even more advanced, such as an Iris eye scanner.
We’ve been hearing rumours of two iPhone models for a couple of months now and an analyst has given some more evidence that it’s true. What is different is that both handsets will be launched at different times. According to Chinese analyst Sun Chyang Xu, the iPhone 6 will launch in June with a 4.7-inch screen and then a follow-up iPhone 6 with 5.7-inch display will come later in the year.
The analyst said production will begin next month with full scale manufacturing beginning in May ready for WWDC in June. If Xu's comments are correct it would appear Apple is sticking to its two-handset launches from here on out. 2013 gave us the iPhone 5s and the iPhone 5c, and 2014 is likely to follow suit – just with a normal (but still slightly larger) iPhone and a phablet sized one.
Meanwhile in the US, one analyst claims Apple has now decided on what size screen it will use inside its next-generation iPhone. According to Timothy Arcuri of Cowen and Company, the iPhone 6 – or iPhone Air, as some are calling it – will feature a significantly larger 4.8-inch Retina display.
Updates to iOS are likely to focus on things like iBeacon, Touch ID, and Passbook. Arcuri added that 2013’s iPhone 5s was just the start – or, put another way: the jumping board for this year’s products. In 2014/15 the company will focus more and more on mobile payments, leveraging services like TouchID, iBeacons and the currently (pretty useless) Passbook application.
Arcuri relayed news of the larger panel in a note to investors and claims to have spoken to sources within Apple’s supply chain. In addition to a larger display the iPhone 6 will also featureWi-Fi 802.11ac, as well as a whole host of new software “innovations” inside the company’s next iteration of iOS.Interestingly, Arcuri made no mention of Apple’s rumoured phablet-sized iPhone, however.
Unlike this report from the WSJ, which claims a 4.5-inch handset is near mass production while a bigger device is in “preliminary development.” According to the report both devices will be made of metal and Apple will stop producing plastic handsets like the iPhone 5C. That would make sense after rumours of appalling sales figures for Apple’s “budget” handset.
The report doesn’t have any new details on when either device might hit the market but previous reports have claimed we may see the smaller handset in June and the larger device by September.
In addition to this a report from China in late 2013 – citing Foxconn insiders – suggested there would be two handsets launched later this year. One is said to be a 4.7-inch setup while the other will pack in a 5.7-inch phablet-sized panel. Another detail leaked by the sources is the inclusion of “biometrics” in both handsets, which could mean anything from a fingerprint scanner to something even more advanced, such as an Iris eye scanner.
Sunshine, lollipops and rainbows
Ok, so maybe just sunshine. According to analyst Matt Margolis Apple will improve the iPhone 6/iPhone Air's battery life by installing solar cells into its new Sapphire Glass display panels.
Margolis refers to a February 2013 patent filed by Apple for a combined touch sensor and solar panel design, and a subsequent patent from October concerned with transferring power from the solar cells to the handset's hardware.
The analyst also cites a job ad posted by Apple for an engineer with experience using solar technology.
Funnily enough, it's not the first we've heard of solar-powered devices in the works. Earlier in the month reports emerged that Nokia could be working on a solar-charging Lumia 1525 handset.
Ok, so maybe just sunshine. According to analyst Matt Margolis Apple will improve the iPhone 6/iPhone Air's battery life by installing solar cells into its new Sapphire Glass display panels.
Margolis refers to a February 2013 patent filed by Apple for a combined touch sensor and solar panel design, and a subsequent patent from October concerned with transferring power from the solar cells to the handset's hardware.
The analyst also cites a job ad posted by Apple for an engineer with experience using solar technology.
Funnily enough, it's not the first we've heard of solar-powered devices in the works. Earlier in the month reports emerged that Nokia could be working on a solar-charging Lumia 1525 handset.
Apple Take On PayPal and Google Wallet
Apple could be preparing a mobile payment and e-Wallet service to rival Google Wallet, according to reports.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has added more fuel to the fire suggesting micro payments will soon be adopted by the company. Cook said, "The mobile payments area in general is one that we've been intrigued with. It was one of the thoughts behind Touch ID."
Cook also commented on how Touch ID payments have proven popular for products such as books, movies and music. He said, “there is a lot of opportunity” to expand the system to physical shopping.
We’ve been hearing whispers of Apple creating a service to rival that of PayPal and Google Wallet but this is the first time it has come from the CEO’s mouth. Would you be interested in a service provided by Apple?
Previously, word came via the Wall Street Journal which says the company is aiming to leverage the "hundreds of millions of credit cards on file through its iTunes store."
The report said Apple's iTunes chief, Eddy Cue, held a meeting with unnamed industry executives to discus possible payment infrastructure for "physical goods and services" using Apple devices. The word comes from WSJ's anonymous "people familiar with the situation."
Three other unnamed sources also revealed that Apple has put Jennifer Bailey, the company's online store executive, in charge of the development of this new payment model. Apple has not commented on the rumours.
How Apple will introduce a service isn't clear at present, although it's long been thought it will expand the TouchID fingerprint scanner functionality into a wider range of functions including mobile payment.
While mobile payments from other companies are yet to signficantly take off, it's conventionally been thought that such services would do so via NFC tech, however, Apple has actively steered clear of NFC, so it will be interesting to see what other methods it could put in place.
Apple could be preparing a mobile payment and e-Wallet service to rival Google Wallet, according to reports.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has added more fuel to the fire suggesting micro payments will soon be adopted by the company. Cook said, "The mobile payments area in general is one that we've been intrigued with. It was one of the thoughts behind Touch ID."
Cook also commented on how Touch ID payments have proven popular for products such as books, movies and music. He said, “there is a lot of opportunity” to expand the system to physical shopping.
We’ve been hearing whispers of Apple creating a service to rival that of PayPal and Google Wallet but this is the first time it has come from the CEO’s mouth. Would you be interested in a service provided by Apple?
Previously, word came via the Wall Street Journal which says the company is aiming to leverage the "hundreds of millions of credit cards on file through its iTunes store."
The report said Apple's iTunes chief, Eddy Cue, held a meeting with unnamed industry executives to discus possible payment infrastructure for "physical goods and services" using Apple devices. The word comes from WSJ's anonymous "people familiar with the situation."
Three other unnamed sources also revealed that Apple has put Jennifer Bailey, the company's online store executive, in charge of the development of this new payment model. Apple has not commented on the rumours.
How Apple will introduce a service isn't clear at present, although it's long been thought it will expand the TouchID fingerprint scanner functionality into a wider range of functions including mobile payment.
While mobile payments from other companies are yet to signficantly take off, it's conventionally been thought that such services would do so via NFC tech, however, Apple has actively steered clear of NFC, so it will be interesting to see what other methods it could put in place.
ETA: iPhone 6 incoming in June with A8 chip aboard?
The latest rumours suggest the iPhone 6 could arrive in June 2014. According to DigiTimes, Apple has recruited three chip production companies to build its next-gen A8 processor.
Amkor Technology, STATS ChipPAC and Advanced Semiconductor Engineering have allegedly all been drafted in for processor "packaging" processes. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is also said to be involved in the process.
The report states that TSMC will "ramp up" A8 20 nanometre chip production by Q2 2014 aiming for a June launch for the handset at the earliest.
The latest rumours suggest the iPhone 6 could arrive in June 2014. According to DigiTimes, Apple has recruited three chip production companies to build its next-gen A8 processor.
Amkor Technology, STATS ChipPAC and Advanced Semiconductor Engineering have allegedly all been drafted in for processor "packaging" processes. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is also said to be involved in the process.
The report states that TSMC will "ramp up" A8 20 nanometre chip production by Q2 2014 aiming for a June launch for the handset at the earliest.
Apple’s A8 Chipset May Integrate DRAM
With the iPhone 6, Apple will be upgrading its chipset to a brand new A8 offering. One report is claiming the A8 will be attempting to bring it closer to being a “system-on-a-chip” (SoC). Currently, the iPhone 5s holds the A7 chipset which includes the CPU, GPU, cache, image processor and TouchID features all on one chipset - there is a lot currently on the chip, but it isn't a complete SoC compared to rival offerings.
Other features such as the accelerometer, gyroscope and compass processing are dealt with on the A7's companion chip, the M7 motion coprocessor andthe DRAM is separate. One report is claiming, however, that Apple will integrate the DRAM into the chipset on the A8. That doesn’t mean there won’t be an M8 motion coprocessor but it’s a step towards the full system being on one chip.
With the iPhone 6, Apple will be upgrading its chipset to a brand new A8 offering. One report is claiming the A8 will be attempting to bring it closer to being a “system-on-a-chip” (SoC). Currently, the iPhone 5s holds the A7 chipset which includes the CPU, GPU, cache, image processor and TouchID features all on one chipset - there is a lot currently on the chip, but it isn't a complete SoC compared to rival offerings.
Other features such as the accelerometer, gyroscope and compass processing are dealt with on the A7's companion chip, the M7 motion coprocessor andthe DRAM is separate. One report is claiming, however, that Apple will integrate the DRAM into the chipset on the A8. That doesn’t mean there won’t be an M8 motion coprocessor but it’s a step towards the full system being on one chip.
iPen and interchangeable camera lenses
By now we've learned that just because a company such as Apple files a patent for something doesn't mean it's necessarily going to turn up in hardware, let alone any time soon. But, it also doesn't rule it out, and sometimes such things do indicate the imminent arrival of a new feature - such was the case with TouchID on the iPhone 5S.
The latest batch of intriguing Apple patents includes an "iPen" stylus, although this isn't the first stylus patent the Cupertino iPhone giant has acquired. This most recent addition adds to the existing 20 or so stylus-based patents in Apple's armoury.
The new stylus patent ensures a compatible device can work out the orientation of the pen using sensors both in the stylus itself and the tablet or phone using it.
Such functionality means Apple could tie a number of features into the pen, including gesture and orientation based capabilities (such as ensuring the rear of the stylus is registered as an eraser).
Whether this tech will appear with the iPhone 6 (which is possible if the screen is enlarged as rumours suggest) or one of Apple's future iPad tablets, remains to be seen.
The other new patents include two designs for interchangeable camera lenses, although one of them seems unlikely to appear on Apple's devices because it uses a removable back panel design, something Apple has consistently steered clear of.
The second option, however, is a bit more manageable as a camera lens which fits with a locking system and a magnetic element which appears to operate as a "guide" of sorts to get the fit nice and snug.
By now we've learned that just because a company such as Apple files a patent for something doesn't mean it's necessarily going to turn up in hardware, let alone any time soon. But, it also doesn't rule it out, and sometimes such things do indicate the imminent arrival of a new feature - such was the case with TouchID on the iPhone 5S.
The latest batch of intriguing Apple patents includes an "iPen" stylus, although this isn't the first stylus patent the Cupertino iPhone giant has acquired. This most recent addition adds to the existing 20 or so stylus-based patents in Apple's armoury.
The new stylus patent ensures a compatible device can work out the orientation of the pen using sensors both in the stylus itself and the tablet or phone using it.
Such functionality means Apple could tie a number of features into the pen, including gesture and orientation based capabilities (such as ensuring the rear of the stylus is registered as an eraser).
Whether this tech will appear with the iPhone 6 (which is possible if the screen is enlarged as rumours suggest) or one of Apple's future iPad tablets, remains to be seen.
The other new patents include two designs for interchangeable camera lenses, although one of them seems unlikely to appear on Apple's devices because it uses a removable back panel design, something Apple has consistently steered clear of.
The second option, however, is a bit more manageable as a camera lens which fits with a locking system and a magnetic element which appears to operate as a "guide" of sorts to get the fit nice and snug.
Design: The Next Generation Of iPhone
Although it’s early, these could be images of the Apple iPhone 6’s frame. Renowned Chinese Apple leaker CTech has posted two photos alleged to be the iPhone 6's chassis.
Subsequent reports of the leak have estimated the frame in the image could house a display between 4.7-inches and 5-inches, as per previous rumours.
The second image shows the device from the side and it looks incredibly thin, although it's difficult to ascertain if this will be the 6mm chassis earlier rumours referred to. Such earlier rumours also alleged the super-thin iPhone 6 would in fact be called the iPad Air. Not only would this mean a bigger screen to compete with Android rivals, but a lighter weight to the handset too.
CTech has leaked specs for the iPhone 5C in the past which proved to be correct, so there is some hope this leak could also be accurate. It seems pretty early for us to be getting believable images yet but the phone is in development so this could be the real deal. Only time will tell.
Concept images and renders seem to emerge on a fairly regular basis, often updated with whatever the latest rumour is for new features and design elements. It's helpful because it means we can visualise what the iPhone 6/iPhone Air will be like when it arrives, even if it's not guaranteed to be 100% accurate.
The latest comes via Youtube channel ConceptsiPhone and artist Amine Kaddari. Interestingly, a video was also posted showing what is alleged to be iPhone 6 body panels from inside a factory, but the authenticity cannot be verified.
Although it’s early, these could be images of the Apple iPhone 6’s frame. Renowned Chinese Apple leaker CTech has posted two photos alleged to be the iPhone 6's chassis.
Subsequent reports of the leak have estimated the frame in the image could house a display between 4.7-inches and 5-inches, as per previous rumours.
The second image shows the device from the side and it looks incredibly thin, although it's difficult to ascertain if this will be the 6mm chassis earlier rumours referred to. Such earlier rumours also alleged the super-thin iPhone 6 would in fact be called the iPad Air. Not only would this mean a bigger screen to compete with Android rivals, but a lighter weight to the handset too.
CTech has leaked specs for the iPhone 5C in the past which proved to be correct, so there is some hope this leak could also be accurate. It seems pretty early for us to be getting believable images yet but the phone is in development so this could be the real deal. Only time will tell.
Concept images and renders seem to emerge on a fairly regular basis, often updated with whatever the latest rumour is for new features and design elements. It's helpful because it means we can visualise what the iPhone 6/iPhone Air will be like when it arrives, even if it's not guaranteed to be 100% accurate.
The latest comes via Youtube channel ConceptsiPhone and artist Amine Kaddari. Interestingly, a video was also posted showing what is alleged to be iPhone 6 body panels from inside a factory, but the authenticity cannot be verified.
Will There Be A Phablet?
Apple has to order millions of components for production and certain analysts and market-watchers have a knack for spotting these “orders”. Most recently Brian White, of Cantor Fitzgerald, suggested there was a "bigger iPhone" in the works that has been in development for over a year.
DisplaySearch, an excellent source for accurate predictions about Apple’s forthcoming products, recently published the following table, detailing the display technology we’ll see inside Apple’s 2014 products.
Current Product Display New Product Display Timing iPhone 5 4” 1136×640 iPhone 6 4.7” 1280×720; 5.7” 1920×1080 Q2’14 iPad 9.7” 2048×1536 iPad 5 9.7” 2048×1536; portrait mode, slim bezel Q4’13 New iPad 12.9” 2732×2048 2014 iPad mini 7.9” XGA iPad mini 2 7.9” 2048×1536; portrait mode Q4’13 MacBook Air 13.3” 1440×900 MacBook Air (new) 12” 2304×1440; low power 2014 Apple TV 55”, 65” 4Kx2K 120Hz LCD Q3’14 iWatch 1.3”/1.63” 320×320 flexible AMOLED Q4’14
Analyst Peter Misek of Jeffries has also suggested the iPhone 6 will have a 4.8inch display, based on his recent meetings with Apple suppliers in Asia. While Misek's note to investors did not detail precisely why he believes Apple will stamp a significant 0.8 of an inch onto its exisiting 4-inch display design he did add that the current popularity of larger-screened smartphones would drive sales and upgrades to unprecedented levels.
"We think the 85 million iPhones eligible for an upgrade when the iPhone 6 launches (we think Apple is targeting Sep 2014) could be boosted by another 5-10 million from people who skipped the 5S/5C cycle," he said.
Apple has to order millions of components for production and certain analysts and market-watchers have a knack for spotting these “orders”. Most recently Brian White, of Cantor Fitzgerald, suggested there was a "bigger iPhone" in the works that has been in development for over a year.
DisplaySearch, an excellent source for accurate predictions about Apple’s forthcoming products, recently published the following table, detailing the display technology we’ll see inside Apple’s 2014 products.
| Current Product | Display | New Product | Display | Timing |
| iPhone 5 | 4” 1136×640 | iPhone 6 | 4.7” 1280×720; 5.7” 1920×1080 | Q2’14 |
| iPad | 9.7” 2048×1536 | iPad 5 | 9.7” 2048×1536; portrait mode, slim bezel | Q4’13 |
| New iPad | 12.9” 2732×2048 | 2014 | ||
| iPad mini | 7.9” XGA | iPad mini 2 | 7.9” 2048×1536; portrait mode | Q4’13 |
| MacBook Air | 13.3” 1440×900 | MacBook Air (new) | 12” 2304×1440; low power | 2014 |
| Apple TV | 55”, 65” 4Kx2K 120Hz LCD | Q3’14 | ||
| iWatch | 1.3”/1.63” 320×320 flexible AMOLED | Q4’14 |
Analyst Peter Misek of Jeffries has also suggested the iPhone 6 will have a 4.8inch display, based on his recent meetings with Apple suppliers in Asia. While Misek's note to investors did not detail precisely why he believes Apple will stamp a significant 0.8 of an inch onto its exisiting 4-inch display design he did add that the current popularity of larger-screened smartphones would drive sales and upgrades to unprecedented levels.
"We think the 85 million iPhones eligible for an upgrade when the iPhone 6 launches (we think Apple is targeting Sep 2014) could be boosted by another 5-10 million from people who skipped the 5S/5C cycle," he said.
Liquid Metal Construction
Patently Apple picked up on a couple of filings made by Apple for a Liquid Metal construction method. As usual with such filings, there's a lot of technical talk and a lot of vague suggestions about what the tech "could" be used for, which is pretty much any electronic consumer device you care to think of. But, it is possible Apple could use the manufacturing process, which may incorporate the use of 3D printing, to create the iPhone 6.
The process essentially involves fusing together multiple layers of Liquid Metal material into one hardened shell.
In a different but no less significant area, Apple's acquisition of 3D motion sensor company PrimeSense has been confirmed. PrimeSense is an Israeli motion sensor company which originally developed the Xbox 360's Kinect motion sensor device.
Patently Apple picked up on a couple of filings made by Apple for a Liquid Metal construction method. As usual with such filings, there's a lot of technical talk and a lot of vague suggestions about what the tech "could" be used for, which is pretty much any electronic consumer device you care to think of. But, it is possible Apple could use the manufacturing process, which may incorporate the use of 3D printing, to create the iPhone 6.
The process essentially involves fusing together multiple layers of Liquid Metal material into one hardened shell.
In a different but no less significant area, Apple's acquisition of 3D motion sensor company PrimeSense has been confirmed. PrimeSense is an Israeli motion sensor company which originally developed the Xbox 360's Kinect motion sensor device.
Camera: Building On From The iPhone 5s
The iPhone 6 won't upgrade to 12MP or 16MP sensors as has been previously rumoured, according to reports out of the Asian supply and manufacturing network.
China Post reports that it has heard from Nomura Security, a Chinese firm, that Apple will still use the existing 8-megapixel iSight sensor present in the iPhone 5S but will make further tweaks to improve imaging quality. One such change is said to be the addition of optical image stabilisation (OIS).
Adding further legitimacy to the claims, the US Patent & Trademark Office has received a patent application from Apple for an OIS setup and improved autofocus technology.
This will include "voice coil motor actuators" for allowing the lens to adjust with movement.
The move is a believable one, as Apple has previously emphasised its reluctance to upscale the megapixel count, instead insisting it will concentrate on tweaking its existing hardware.
The iPhone 6 won't upgrade to 12MP or 16MP sensors as has been previously rumoured, according to reports out of the Asian supply and manufacturing network.
China Post reports that it has heard from Nomura Security, a Chinese firm, that Apple will still use the existing 8-megapixel iSight sensor present in the iPhone 5S but will make further tweaks to improve imaging quality. One such change is said to be the addition of optical image stabilisation (OIS).
Adding further legitimacy to the claims, the US Patent & Trademark Office has received a patent application from Apple for an OIS setup and improved autofocus technology.
This will include "voice coil motor actuators" for allowing the lens to adjust with movement.
The move is a believable one, as Apple has previously emphasised its reluctance to upscale the megapixel count, instead insisting it will concentrate on tweaking its existing hardware.
Autofocus improvements
Apple have filed for a patent with the US Patents office which details a new camera stabilization mechanism which is likely to make its way into the iPhone 6. The “VCM OIS actuator module” will act to reduce image blurriness and will help improve the autofocus speed on the iPhone’s camera.
The new VCM OIS system is designed to compensate for hand movement when taking a photo or video.
This new design also has the lens and image sensor attached together which should make manufacturing the cameras a simpler process.
Some are arguing the iPhone is falling behind other competitor’s flagship devices in terms of image quality as the cameras are 8MP compared to 20MP cameras on the Sony Xperia Z1 and Nokia Lumia 1520. Maybe so. But as the iPhone 5s proved with its exceptionally good imaging capabilities: megapixels aren't everything.
After testing the iPhone 5s' camera out and seeing what it was capable of, we're dying to see how the setup will be improved aboard the iPhone 6. Could we also see full HD slow-motion video added? You bet your ass we could.
Apple have filed for a patent with the US Patents office which details a new camera stabilization mechanism which is likely to make its way into the iPhone 6. The “VCM OIS actuator module” will act to reduce image blurriness and will help improve the autofocus speed on the iPhone’s camera.
The new VCM OIS system is designed to compensate for hand movement when taking a photo or video.
This new design also has the lens and image sensor attached together which should make manufacturing the cameras a simpler process.
Some are arguing the iPhone is falling behind other competitor’s flagship devices in terms of image quality as the cameras are 8MP compared to 20MP cameras on the Sony Xperia Z1 and Nokia Lumia 1520. Maybe so. But as the iPhone 5s proved with its exceptionally good imaging capabilities: megapixels aren't everything.
After testing the iPhone 5s' camera out and seeing what it was capable of, we're dying to see how the setup will be improved aboard the iPhone 6. Could we also see full HD slow-motion video added? You bet your ass we could.
"Lytro" Camera, Anyone?
Apple's latest intriguing patent suggests it may be prepping Lytro-like capabilities for the iPhone 6's camera.
If you're not aware of Lytro, it's a type of camera which allows you to capture an image and then dynamically select (and re-select) a focal point at a later date using something called "plenoptic" technology. The technology means photography can be far more of a "fire and forget" affair.
Apple's patent details a "digital camera including refocusable imaging mode adaptor", according to AppleInsider. While no specific mention has been made of the iPhone 6, Apple will need to continue to enhance its camera technology in order to remain competetive.
Previously, Apple has outlined that it would rather tweak its 8-megapixel iSight hardware for better performance than simply up the megapixel count, and it's an approach which has been met with plenty of critical acclaim for the iPhone 5S's impressive imaging capabilities.
According to Techradar, the patent "even makes reference to the Lytro camera as prior art but adds that certain adjustments can be made in the quality of picture."
It's known that before Steve Jobs died he met with Lytro's founder to discuss a partnetship and this patent was filed in September 2011, just before Jobs' death. Numerous reports indicate many of Apple's products released since Jobs passed away have been developed in accordance to roadmaps he already laid out and it's feasible the iPhone 6, complete with a Lytro-like camera, could be part of his posthumous plan.
Apple's latest intriguing patent suggests it may be prepping Lytro-like capabilities for the iPhone 6's camera.
If you're not aware of Lytro, it's a type of camera which allows you to capture an image and then dynamically select (and re-select) a focal point at a later date using something called "plenoptic" technology. The technology means photography can be far more of a "fire and forget" affair.
Apple's patent details a "digital camera including refocusable imaging mode adaptor", according to AppleInsider. While no specific mention has been made of the iPhone 6, Apple will need to continue to enhance its camera technology in order to remain competetive.
Previously, Apple has outlined that it would rather tweak its 8-megapixel iSight hardware for better performance than simply up the megapixel count, and it's an approach which has been met with plenty of critical acclaim for the iPhone 5S's impressive imaging capabilities.
According to Techradar, the patent "even makes reference to the Lytro camera as prior art but adds that certain adjustments can be made in the quality of picture."
It's known that before Steve Jobs died he met with Lytro's founder to discuss a partnetship and this patent was filed in September 2011, just before Jobs' death. Numerous reports indicate many of Apple's products released since Jobs passed away have been developed in accordance to roadmaps he already laid out and it's feasible the iPhone 6, complete with a Lytro-like camera, could be part of his posthumous plan.
"Wrap-around" Sapphire Glass Display
Apple is currently playing with a couple of interesting display patents which may have ramifications for the future iPhone 6. The Cupertino-based iPhone giant has an application in place for "quantum dot-enhanced displays" which would allegedly improve colour reproduction, making it more accurate and natural.
Intriguingly, this technology uses "components that can be smaller even than biological viruses to fine-tune emitted light," according to Techcrunch. Apparently such display tech is also cheaper and easier to mass produce in a range of sizes.
The second patent application is really compelling. We've heard about wrap-around displays before and have even seen concepts iPhone 6 renders utilising such technology. There's also been a lot of talk about Apple's interest in Sapphire Glass and earlier rumours have suggested the company has dropped a lot of money into R&D on this super-strong glass tech.
The new patent combines these two elements together - a wrap-around Sapphire Glass touch display. The patent details a number of designs, including a "hollow cylinder, a hollow tube with an oval, triangular, or rectangular cross-sectional shape, or other hollow shapes." Presumably the hollow inside would be filled with the phone's hardware and some kind of cap structure would be added at each end with various ports, controls and antennae. A rectangular cross-section seems most likely given Apple's previous iPhone designs.
"According to Apple's patent, one or more sensors can monitor screen rotation and information on the screen could stay in the same position, or rotate along with the display," reports PhoneArena, "The patent goes on to explain how the sapphire for the cover could be created by pulling a sapphire crystal seed from a molten material. Apple's patent reveals how the display can be used for games, and how content on the screen can be updated in real time as it rotates."
Apple is currently playing with a couple of interesting display patents which may have ramifications for the future iPhone 6. The Cupertino-based iPhone giant has an application in place for "quantum dot-enhanced displays" which would allegedly improve colour reproduction, making it more accurate and natural.
Intriguingly, this technology uses "components that can be smaller even than biological viruses to fine-tune emitted light," according to Techcrunch. Apparently such display tech is also cheaper and easier to mass produce in a range of sizes.
The second patent application is really compelling. We've heard about wrap-around displays before and have even seen concepts iPhone 6 renders utilising such technology. There's also been a lot of talk about Apple's interest in Sapphire Glass and earlier rumours have suggested the company has dropped a lot of money into R&D on this super-strong glass tech.
The new patent combines these two elements together - a wrap-around Sapphire Glass touch display. The patent details a number of designs, including a "hollow cylinder, a hollow tube with an oval, triangular, or rectangular cross-sectional shape, or other hollow shapes." Presumably the hollow inside would be filled with the phone's hardware and some kind of cap structure would be added at each end with various ports, controls and antennae. A rectangular cross-section seems most likely given Apple's previous iPhone designs.
"According to Apple's patent, one or more sensors can monitor screen rotation and information on the screen could stay in the same position, or rotate along with the display," reports PhoneArena, "The patent goes on to explain how the sapphire for the cover could be created by pulling a sapphire crystal seed from a molten material. Apple's patent reveals how the display can be used for games, and how content on the screen can be updated in real time as it rotates."
Patented Technology
Curved Displays
Apple recently filed a patent for a 'curved touch sensor', which would allow it to adopt curved screen technology (think the LG G Flex or the Samsung Round). Apple's patent suggests they would take a slightly different approach to the technology, placing the different components onto a flat surface before heating and curving it as a single entity.
Or, as Apple Insider explains it: "To avoid deformation due to the annealing process, the patent proposes a technique that deposits a conductive thin film over a flexible substrate while it is in a flat state. Once the electrodes are in place, the substrate package is joined to a curved "forming substrate" and subsequently heated. The process results in a non-deformed curved touch sensor stackup with a thin film that benefits from the high-temperature anneal. "
iPad fans or those waiting for the release of the iWatch shouldn't fear though - this patent covers use of the technology in iPads and smaller, watch-sized, devices too.
The news comes after a source told Bloomberg that Apple is working on TWO curved handsets with larger screen. However, we have to add a caveat: there's no guarantee that Apple will make use of this patent at all, or if it does use the patent, that it will be for the iPhone 6.
Apple recently filed a patent for a 'curved touch sensor', which would allow it to adopt curved screen technology (think the LG G Flex or the Samsung Round). Apple's patent suggests they would take a slightly different approach to the technology, placing the different components onto a flat surface before heating and curving it as a single entity.
Or, as Apple Insider explains it: "To avoid deformation due to the annealing process, the patent proposes a technique that deposits a conductive thin film over a flexible substrate while it is in a flat state. Once the electrodes are in place, the substrate package is joined to a curved "forming substrate" and subsequently heated. The process results in a non-deformed curved touch sensor stackup with a thin film that benefits from the high-temperature anneal. "
iPad fans or those waiting for the release of the iWatch shouldn't fear though - this patent covers use of the technology in iPads and smaller, watch-sized, devices too.
The news comes after a source told Bloomberg that Apple is working on TWO curved handsets with larger screen. However, we have to add a caveat: there's no guarantee that Apple will make use of this patent at all, or if it does use the patent, that it will be for the iPhone 6.
Quantum Dot-Enhanced Displays
Apple is currently playing with a couple of interesting display patents which may have ramifications for the future iPhone 6. The Cupertino-based iPhone giant has an application in place for "quantum dot-enhanced displays" which would allegedly improve colour reproduction, making it more accurate and natural.
Intriguingly, this technology uses "components that can be smaller even than biological viruses to fine-tune emitted light," according to Techcrunch. Apparently such display tech is also cheaper and easier to mass produce in a range of sizes.
The second patent application is really compelling. We've heard about wrap-around displays before and have even seen concepts iPhone 6 renders utilising such technology. There's also been a lot of talk about Apple's interest in Sapphire Glass and earlier rumours have suggested the company has dropped a lot of money into R&D on this super-strong glass tech.
Apple is currently playing with a couple of interesting display patents which may have ramifications for the future iPhone 6. The Cupertino-based iPhone giant has an application in place for "quantum dot-enhanced displays" which would allegedly improve colour reproduction, making it more accurate and natural.
Intriguingly, this technology uses "components that can be smaller even than biological viruses to fine-tune emitted light," according to Techcrunch. Apparently such display tech is also cheaper and easier to mass produce in a range of sizes.
The second patent application is really compelling. We've heard about wrap-around displays before and have even seen concepts iPhone 6 renders utilising such technology. There's also been a lot of talk about Apple's interest in Sapphire Glass and earlier rumours have suggested the company has dropped a lot of money into R&D on this super-strong glass tech.
Sapphire Glass
The new patent combines these two elements together - a wrap-around Sapphire Glass touch display. The patent details a number of designs, including a "hollow cylinder, a hollow tube with an oval, triangular, or rectangular cross-sectional shape, or other hollow shapes." Presumably the hollow inside would be filled with the phone's hardware and some kind of cap structure would be added at each end with various ports, controls and antennae. A rectangular cross-section seems most likely given Apple's previous iPhone designs.
"According to Apple's patent, one or more sensors can monitor screen rotation and information on the screen could stay in the same position, or rotate along with the display," reports PhoneArena, "The patent goes on to explain how the sapphire for the cover could be created by pulling a sapphire crystal seed from a molten material. Apple's patent reveals how the display can be used for games, and how content on the screen can be updated in real time as it rotates."
The new patent combines these two elements together - a wrap-around Sapphire Glass touch display. The patent details a number of designs, including a "hollow cylinder, a hollow tube with an oval, triangular, or rectangular cross-sectional shape, or other hollow shapes." Presumably the hollow inside would be filled with the phone's hardware and some kind of cap structure would be added at each end with various ports, controls and antennae. A rectangular cross-section seems most likely given Apple's previous iPhone designs.
"According to Apple's patent, one or more sensors can monitor screen rotation and information on the screen could stay in the same position, or rotate along with the display," reports PhoneArena, "The patent goes on to explain how the sapphire for the cover could be created by pulling a sapphire crystal seed from a molten material. Apple's patent reveals how the display can be used for games, and how content on the screen can be updated in real time as it rotates."
Kinect-like Tech?
Apple's acquisition of 3D motion sensor company PrimeSense has been confirmed. PrimeSense is an Israeli motion sensor company which originally developed the Xbox 360's Kinect motion sensor device.
Apple confirmed the deal to CNET while PrimeSense's reps also confirmed it to Engadget, but both companies have declined to comment further at this stage.
What are the ramifications of this? Well analysts are taking it as a sign that those rumours of an Apple eye-tracking function could very well be a reality on the iPhone 6. It could also potentially mean a range of other gesture and motion based control inputs. Since Kinect, PrimeSense is known to have been working primarily on mobile sensor solutions.
Apple's acquisition of 3D motion sensor company PrimeSense has been confirmed. PrimeSense is an Israeli motion sensor company which originally developed the Xbox 360's Kinect motion sensor device.
Apple confirmed the deal to CNET while PrimeSense's reps also confirmed it to Engadget, but both companies have declined to comment further at this stage.
What are the ramifications of this? Well analysts are taking it as a sign that those rumours of an Apple eye-tracking function could very well be a reality on the iPhone 6. It could also potentially mean a range of other gesture and motion based control inputs. Since Kinect, PrimeSense is known to have been working primarily on mobile sensor solutions.
Improved Touchscreen
Is it possible your next iPhone might have a pressure sensitive touch screen? If one of Apple’s latest patent filings is anything to go against, then perhaps it will.
The patent in question, titled "Touch-sensitive button with two levels," describes technology Apple has invented that allows the touchscreen to detect different amounts of pressure exerted upon it.
Applications—and iOS—built to take advantage of this pressure sensitive touch screen could then start executing commands based on how hard a person is touching the screen. One example of this could be a heavy touch, which generates a lot of pressure, could tell an app or button to bring up an advanced set of features or menus, while lighter touches on the same button could have it display fewer or less complex feature sets or menus.
Games could take the pressure sensitive touch screen even further. Imagine playing a first person shooter on your iPhone. Light, normal taps from your finger would let you shoot bullets from your revolver, while harder, more pressure-intensive taps would automatically switch you to —and fire—your grenade launcher.
In short, a pressure sensitive touch screen could solve the limited screen real-estate problem UI developers have with working on four-inch smartphone screens. If you need fewer buttons because the existing ones can have dual functions based on how hard the user touches them, you’ll have more space on the screen for displaying what really matters—the content of the app, be it 3D levels in a video game or the canvas in a painting application.
Is it possible your next iPhone might have a pressure sensitive touch screen? If one of Apple’s latest patent filings is anything to go against, then perhaps it will.
The patent in question, titled "Touch-sensitive button with two levels," describes technology Apple has invented that allows the touchscreen to detect different amounts of pressure exerted upon it.
Applications—and iOS—built to take advantage of this pressure sensitive touch screen could then start executing commands based on how hard a person is touching the screen. One example of this could be a heavy touch, which generates a lot of pressure, could tell an app or button to bring up an advanced set of features or menus, while lighter touches on the same button could have it display fewer or less complex feature sets or menus.
Games could take the pressure sensitive touch screen even further. Imagine playing a first person shooter on your iPhone. Light, normal taps from your finger would let you shoot bullets from your revolver, while harder, more pressure-intensive taps would automatically switch you to —and fire—your grenade launcher.
In short, a pressure sensitive touch screen could solve the limited screen real-estate problem UI developers have with working on four-inch smartphone screens. If you need fewer buttons because the existing ones can have dual functions based on how hard the user touches them, you’ll have more space on the screen for displaying what really matters—the content of the app, be it 3D levels in a video game or the canvas in a painting application.
The iPhone 6 And Your Car
The iPhone 6 may feature technology that allows you to adjust your car from your iDevice.
The patent, filed on the United States Patent and Trademark Office shows the ability to tune the radio into your preferred station, adjust mirrors and seat position so if you share a car, you can make it perfect for your needs with the tap of a screen.
Features you will be able to change include the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position, so whether you share a car with a partner/husband/wife/friend or you use a hire car on a regular basis, it can certainly take the pain out of changing your settings every time you get in the car.
The patent says, 'A user's portable electronic device can learn configuration preferences from a first environment, such as the user's car, and when the user visits another similar environment, such as a rented automobile, those configuration preferences can be imported into the visited environment and used to automatically configure the environment according to the imported preferences.'
The iPhone 6 may feature technology that allows you to adjust your car from your iDevice.
The patent, filed on the United States Patent and Trademark Office shows the ability to tune the radio into your preferred station, adjust mirrors and seat position so if you share a car, you can make it perfect for your needs with the tap of a screen.
Features you will be able to change include the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position, so whether you share a car with a partner/husband/wife/friend or you use a hire car on a regular basis, it can certainly take the pain out of changing your settings every time you get in the car.
The patent says, 'A user's portable electronic device can learn configuration preferences from a first environment, such as the user's car, and when the user visits another similar environment, such as a rented automobile, those configuration preferences can be imported into the visited environment and used to automatically configure the environment according to the imported preferences.'
Biometrics: TouchID & Beyond
Apple brought in a number of features with the iPhone 5S. One of these included the Touch ID fingerprint scanner which has received mixed reviews. In our review we said the fingerprint scanner works well but offers little benefit at present.
It looks like Apple will be taking this to the next level for the iPhone 6 though by building in a facial recognition feature. Apple has secured a patent which uses facial recognition for their devices and it’s likely to be deployed inside the company's next-gen iPhones.
The patent shows the handset would be able to recognise if its held by the owner. It will only offer certain features if it’s being held by the wrong person, and could protect vital areas such as information and the settings.
There are many issues with facial recognition, can you use a photograph to bypass it? If you pass your phone over to a mate will it automatically lock? Can you access your phone if the camera breaks? We’ll be sure to keep you up to date with details as it happens.
Apple brought in a number of features with the iPhone 5S. One of these included the Touch ID fingerprint scanner which has received mixed reviews. In our review we said the fingerprint scanner works well but offers little benefit at present.
It looks like Apple will be taking this to the next level for the iPhone 6 though by building in a facial recognition feature. Apple has secured a patent which uses facial recognition for their devices and it’s likely to be deployed inside the company's next-gen iPhones.
The patent shows the handset would be able to recognise if its held by the owner. It will only offer certain features if it’s being held by the wrong person, and could protect vital areas such as information and the settings.
There are many issues with facial recognition, can you use a photograph to bypass it? If you pass your phone over to a mate will it automatically lock? Can you access your phone if the camera breaks? We’ll be sure to keep you up to date with details as it happens.
As flowing links from : http://www.knowyourmobile.com/apple/apple-iphone-6/19763/iphone-6-release-date-features-and-specs-solar-powered-iphone
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