Apple's iPhone 7 may be coming in August, according to esteemed tech watcher Ming-Chi Kuo. This information comes from China Post, which obtained research notes that Kuo apparently wrote. Of note, the iPhone 7 is sometimes referred to as the iPhone 6 in tech gossip circles.
For now, Apple has not officially acknowledged the existence of an iPhone 6 successor. Kuo cemented his reputation with his usually accurate predictions. For instance, the observer was correct on most of his assumptions concerning the iPhone 6 features.
In the sections below, we will explore what Kuo has to say for the iPhone 7.
iPhone 7 May be Unveiled in August, with Two Screen Options
Kuo believes that two models of the iPhone 7 will be available - the 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch model. This information mirrors Kuo's earlier prediction for the iPhone 6. The 4.7-inch iPhone 6 was launched alongside its larger 5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus brother.
Surprisingly, he has also stated that the iPhone 7 will be unveiled in August, which is a full month earlier than most predictions. However, the analyst pointed out that the device will not reach stores until September.
Force Touch Technology a Possibility
First introduced in the new MacBook, Force Touch allows users to make alternate inputs with a firmer push of the finger. This replaces the earlier tap method.
Such technology may be included in the iPhone 7, says Kuo. He also wrote that the feature will be crucial for improved user input as well as the ability to handwrite signatures. Kuo argues that these capabilities are important in "expanding the market."
Other Rumors for the iPhone 7
MacRumors reported on a leak from Kevin King - director of IHS Technology Research for China. The tech observer claimed on Weibo that the next iPhone will feature a 12 megapixel camera. His prediction was echoed earlier by well-regarded KGI security analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
King also stated that the device's increased megapixel will be negated by smaller pixels in the camera. Oddly, he referred to the fabled device as the iPhone 6S instead of the iPhone 7.
There have been some claims that iPhone 7 will have 21-megapixels. This assessment seems erroneous since Apple tend to favor cameras with less megapixels. Previous iPhone models featured 8-megapixel rear cameras. Given Apple's track record and the recent testimony from two experts, the iPhone 7 may have a 12 megapixel rear camera instead.
Touch ID May Be Installed Beneath the Screen
Apple recently filed a patent for hardware that places the Touch ID fingerprint sensor beneath the display. All current iPhone devices have the Touch ID sensor situated beneath the Home button. Theoretically, it is possible to enlarge the display without having to increase the size of the device.
Rumors suggest that Apple may incorporate this technology. Even so, it is uncertain whether the new Touch ID is ready for mass production. Apple may decide to reserve this feature for iPhones developed after iPhone 7.
