Apple’s rumoured A14X chip could level up the performance of the next-generation iPad Pro, reports 9to5Mac.
A reference to the long-awaited processor, which is said to be “blisteringly fast”, was spotted in today’s iOS 14.5 beta release. The developer version of Apple’s next operating system mentions a chip named “13G”. But since no such chip exists, the mysterious “13G” is thought to refer to the A14X in disguise.
The tip seems to confirm a recent Bloomberg report, which claims the iPad Pro 2021 will boast “an updated processor that is on par with the faster M1 chip” found in the company’s current MacBook laptops.
If the latest leak checks out, it suggests the A14X – and therefore the next iPad Pro – could be unveiled sooner rather than later.
As it stands, the iPad Pro 2021 is tipped to launch next month. We’re expecting to see two versions, with the larger, 12.9-inch model boasting a Mini LED display. And with the A14X chip under the bonnet, there should be more than enough oomph to show off Mini LED’s LCD-beating contrast and colour reproduction.
The A14X chip is said to use a compact “System-on-Chip” design. There’s even been a leaked speed test by Geekbench that suggests the new chip is faster than the Intel Core i9 processor in the 2020 MacBook Pro (via AppleInsider).
Sounds impressive, but we’ll keep you up to date with all the latest leaks in the run up to Apple’s next launch event. We’re due a bumper crop of Apple devices this year, including the iPad Pro 2021, AirPods 3 wireless earbuds, AirPods Pro 2 noise-cancelling buds, iPhone 13 and new Apple TV.
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There’s a new iPad on the way. Or, rather, four to be exact.
Apple is said to be about to launch a new iPad Pro next month. While most range refreshes include minor tweaks, this one should bring some major new screen technology into play – and it’s tech that could really improve the user experience.
Not only that, but Apple is also thought to be working on a new iPad Mini that’s bigger than the current model, as well as a refresh to the standard iPad; both of those should launch this year. Add them to the two different-sized Pro models, and that makes four new iPads in the pipeline.
Excited? You should be. Here’s why.
Check out the current range: Best iPads: big, small, budget and premium
Apple iPad Pro 2021: release date
The next iPad Pro refresh could happen very soon indeed. That’s according to Bloomberg, which carried a report recently detailing the new models.
Its sources say that the new Pro models will launch in April. There’s no firm date set, and Apple is yet to announce any events for the coming weeks. But it usually gives at least two weeks’ notice, so expect a mid-April launch at the earliest.
Once they have been announced, however, the new iPads could go on sale just days later, or even immediately.
This would be the fifth generation of iPad Pro. The current model launched last March, a year ago almost to the day. But a spring launch isn’t a given for iPad Pros. The third generation launched in October 2018, while the second gen landed in June 2017. The first model was announced in September 2015 and launched in November of the same year. Fingers crossed it becomes a new spring regular.
OS agnostic? Read our guide to the best tablets covering both iOS and Android
iPad Pro 2021: price
(Image credit: Apple)
The iPad Pro is the daddy of the iPad family, a stylus-equipped tablet that’s superpowered for work and play. Want the best games? The crispest movies? Need it for work, be it illustrating, animating, video editing or music production? It’s the tablet for you.
Of course, all this power doesn’t come cheap. Here’s how the current Pro models stack up.
iPad Pro 11in: from £769 ($799, AU$1329)
iPad Pro 12.9in: from £969 ($999, AU$1649)
With all that natty new screen tech at hand to go with all the usual improvements, we can’t see Apple dropping the price of the new models. Expect them to be in keeping with the current price tags.
iPad Pro 2021: screen
(Image credit: Apple)
We’re expecting two new models of iPad Pro, in the same sizes as the current models (11in and 12.9in). And it’s the bigger of the two that’s really got our attention.
That’s because it is said to boast a Mini LED screen. Like OLED, this technology is used in TVs, but it has better contrast ratios than the current Pro’s OLED panel. It is also less susceptible to burn-in, so if you accidentally leave your tablet on YouTube over the weekend you won’t have to worry about the logo being forever etched in the screen.
We don’t have only Bloomberg‘s word for it. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said back in 2019 that he expected Apple to start using Mini LED screens in its tablets and laptops. He even predicted that Apple would launch the tech in the 12.9in iPad Pro. When two such reputable sources say the same thing, the odds are that it’s true.
Mini LED has a lot going for it. It’s pitched as a more affordable version of OLED, though it works similarly to LCD tech. Essentially, the LEDs on a Mini LED panel’s backlight are much, much smaller than those used on a traditional LCD screen – and therefore there are a great many more of them; we’re talking tens of thousands rather than tens of hundreds. The idea is that the more LEDs used, the greater control the device has over over local dimming – i.e. how bright or dim parts of the screen can go. Theoretically as a result, Mini LEDs can produce pictures with better contrast, pictures with more precise shading and, in turn, better colour reproduction than your average LCD screen.
With a backlight, Mini LED TVs can reach a higher peak brightness than an OLED screen is capable of, and as there is greater control over what portions of the screen are dark it’s easier to achieve deeper blacks. That said, as there is still a backlight in the mix and the LEDs can’t turn completely off, as the self-emissive diodes in OLEDs can, it’s doubtful they’ll be able to produce quite the lights-off blacks that OLEDs can.
Still, we can’t wait to see the technology in action on an iPad. And it sounds as though we won’t have to, for long.
iPad Pro 2021: design
While the screen may be all new, it doesn’t sound as if the design of the device will change much, if at all. According to Bloomberg‘s report, the new Pro models will look similar to the current models. But that’s no bad thing.
The current iPad Pro, after all, is about as sleek as tablets come. Thanks to its narrow bezel, it’s basically all screen, making movies, games and TV shows all the more immersive. Sticking to this design will only serve to better show off the new screen tech, too – when the device is all screen, it really enhances those popping colours and sharply defined edges.
The current models are super slim and light, too. The 11in model sizes up at 24.7 x 17.8 x 0.6cm, while the 12.9in version comes in at 28 x 21.5 x 0.6cm. The smaller model weighs 473g, while the larger tips the scales at 643g – that’s lighter than a squeezy bottle of ketchup.
Unlike some other tablets, the Pro features speakers on both its top and bottom. This means that, when watching a film with the tablet in landscape orientation, you benefit from stereo sound, in contrast to those tablets with speakers in only one place.
The Pro also features a USB-C connection, but the new models have reportedly been tested with Apple’s Thunderbolt connectors. It’s not clear at this point whether they will ship with Thunderbolt or USB-C.
Apple is also reportedly testing its MagSafe connector for laptops. MagSafe is a magnetic connector – because it connects using magnets, the connection breaks if the cable is yanked out, and your device won’t tumble to the floor (say if someone trips over the cable). It was first used in Apple’s laptops, but recently made a return in the iPhone 12 as a way of snapping on accessories. With Apple mulling over MagSafe for MacBooks, could the next iPads also use it?
iPad Pro 2021: specs
(Image credit: Apple)
While the new iPad Pros might look almost identical to the current models, they should be much more powerful. So powerful, in fact, that performance should reportedly be “on a par” with Apple’s M1 MacBook Airs, MacBook Pros and Max Mini.
These M1 devices are the first to feature Apple’s own processors. That’s because last year the firm stopped using Intel chips in favour of its own, homegrown ones, known as Apple silicon. With Apple making both the hardware and software, it is able to optimise performance – these chips are made specifically for Apple devices, after all, as opposed to off-the-shelf processors that power all manner of desktops, laptops and tablets.
Reviews have praised Apple silicon devices, due to their notably improved performance. They have also shown big improvements in battery life.
For example, the latest Apple MacBook Air boasts up to 15 hours of wireless web performance, and up to 18 hours of movie streaming via the Apple TV app. The current iPad Pros manage only about 10 hours of power before needing a recharge, so it’s quite possible that the new models will see a significant battery bump.
The new Pros are also said to have new cameras, but here details are a bit thin on the ground.
Tablets’ cameras are usually a bit of an afterthought; but not on the Pro. This is a device built for creative professionals, after all, and imaging technology is likely to be high on their priority list. It has two rear cameras (a 12MP wide-angle lens, and a 10MP ultra-wide), with 2x optical zoom and 5x digital zoom. It also allows for 4K video recording at 24fps, 30fps or 60fps, 1080p HD video recording at 30fps or 60fps, and 720p HD video recording at 30fps.
The 7MP front-facing camera also has 1080p HD video recording at 30fps or 60fps.
Any upgrade on these would be most welcome, especially to the filmmakers eyeing up a new tablet to help make their movies.
Other new iPads for 2021
(Image credit: Apple)
As we said, the new Pros aren’t the only iPads in the Apple pipeline. The firm is also reportedly working on a new iPad Mini and a refresh of the standard iPad.
The Mini should have a slightly larger screen than the current 7.9in iPad Mini. This follows the trend in mobiles, which has been for bigger screens in recent years. Though it would still carry the Mini moniker, so don’t expect it to supersize anytime soon.
The standard iPad will reportedly be slimmer and lighter than the current model. The current iPad measures 25 x 17 x 0.7cm, so cutting down these dimensions will be no mean feat.
Expect minor spec bumps for these two devices, too.
Both of these iPads are expected to launch later in the year, possibly around September. That would be a year on from the last iPad range refresh. It’s also when we’re expecting the new iPhone 13. Could be a busy month.
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Apple is developing an inwardly folding smartphone with a clamshell design. Read all about the expected iPhone Flip and its possible design here.
Since Samsung released the Galaxy Fold foldable smartphone in 2019, many are wondering when Apple will introduce its first folding phone. But we still have to be patient. Various sources have indicated that the first foldable iPhone will arrive at the earliest in 2022. Nevertheless, it seems that more and more details about this device are becoming known.
The form factor appears to have been determined by now. It will be a flip phone, or a clamshell device, comparable to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and the Motorola Razr. Based on all the rumors, graphic designer Technizo Concept has made a series of 3D renders of the expected iPhone Flip in collaboration with LetsGoDigital.
It is not the first time that LetsGoDigital shows 3D renders of an iPhone with a clamshell design. In 2019, we showed a foldable iPhone, based on a patent awarded by the American manufacturer. In the meantime, information about Apple’s plans has emerged from various sources in the supply chain.
The first foldable iPhone will probably use a flexible display panel from Samsung. It seems to be an OLED screen, although mini LED could be a possibility too. For the product renders, we have assumed that Apple will maintain the notch, but reduce it, just as with the iPhone 12s / iPhone 13 models expected later this year.
For the design of the camera system we have chosen for a similar triple camera set-up as that of the iPhone 12 Pro (Max). By the time the Flip comes out, this is of course no longer the newest or most advanced camera system from Apple. Nevertheless, the focus of the iPhone Flip will not be so much on the camera system – after all, this was not the case with the RAZR and Z Flip either.
It is in line with expectations that Apple will also integrate a cover display. No information is yet known about the size of this screen. To design the renders, we opted for a relatively small display, with the same dimensions as the camera system. In terms of size, this screen is slightly larger than that of the Samsung Z Flip and slightly smaller than that of the Motorola RAZR.
The user will be automatically informed of incoming calls and notifications via the cover display. By placing the camera and the screen on one side of the folding line, it is in theory also possible to take selfies with this camera system.
Apart from the renders, Technizo Concept also made the following video in which the Apple iPhone Flip is shown from all sides in four sparkling colors: red, white, gray and gold.
When is the iPhone Flip expected?
Some time ago, the Taiwanese news medium Economic Daily News reported that Apple had several tests with the iPhone Flip successfully carried out by the Taiwanese chip manufacturer Foxconn. As part of the test, the device was opened and closed 100,000 times.
100,000x may sound like a lot, but the Samsung Z Flip’s Ultra Thin Glass has been tested to last at least 200,000x. Nevertheless, Apple seems to pay a lot of attention to the durability of the device. As a display supplier, Samsung has also been involved in the test process.
In addition, Apple wants to apply special glass technology for the foldable iPhone, which should ensure that the screen remains intact even after frequent folding. Previously, stories had been circulating that Apple wants to use special ceramic protective glass, which cannot be broken so easily. It should also reduce the crease. Ceramic Shield technology was first applied for the iPhone 12 series.
For the display test, two prototypes were used, in addition to a clamshell model, Apple also has a dual screen variant in development, comparable to the Microsoft Surface Duo. This device does not have a flexible display, but two displays with a bezel in between.
Due to this news, many assumed that an iPhone 13 Flip might be introduced in 2021. However, it did not take long before the Taiwanese website Digitimes reported that the foldable iPhone is not expected until 2022.
That may even be too early, as tech analyst Jon Prosser reported on YouTube last month that the foldable iPhone will not arrive before 2023. Furthermore, Prosser confirms that the iPhone will have an inward folding screen with a flip design. In other words, a clamshell design, comparable to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and the Motorola Razr.
In addition, it is mentioned in the video that the clamshell iPhone will be released in various cheerful colors. This is striking news, as it also says something about the target group of this device. Usually, Apple chooses to provide its basic models with cheerful, bright colors. While the advanced Pro models are available in predominantly dark, business tones.
Perhaps Apple will eventually also release a foldable model that unfolds into a tablet format, as a counterpart to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Huawei Mate X2. Thus, the iPhone Flip will then become the cheaper version. However, this seems to be a distant future, first the focus will be on the clamshell model.
Expected clamshell smartphones in 2021
According to Prosser, the foldable iPhone will have a suggested retail price of approx. $ 1,500 USD – comparable to the price of the Samsung Z Flip and Motorola Razr. However, it still seems very early to determine a price now, after all, it is expected that it will take at least another 1.5 years before this device is officially introduced. In the meantime, a number of folding phone models will undoubtedly be introduced. In that respect, everything can change in terms of price.
One of the models that is expected this year is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3. This folding phone is said to have a larger cover display than its predecessor. Samsung also intends to replace the dual camera with a triple camera.
Later this year, Xiaomi appears to be entering the foldable smartphone market as a newcomer, with no fewer than three different models. One of them will be a flip phone, a compact phone to carry with you. However, details about this device are still scarce.
Another Chinese smartphone manufacturer that wants to release a clamshell model this year is Oppo. Oppo’s foldable phone reportedly features a 1.5” to 2” cover display and a 7.7-inch flexible display. All in all, there are still plenty of new developments to be expected in the field of foldable phone models.
Note to editors :The product images shown in this publication are created by Technizo Concept in collaboration with LetsGoDigital. The presented 3D renders are for illustrative purposes only. This product is not for sale. The images are copyright protected. Feel free to use these renders on your own website, please be so respectful to include a source link into your publication.
We could see new iPad Pros launch next month, according to Bloomberg, with one model due a significant upgrade in screen tech.
The site’s sources say that the 12.9in iPad Pro will get a Mini LED display. This would have better contrast ratios than the existing OLED panel, and be less susceptible to burn-in.
It’s not the first we’ve heard about the tech coming to Apple devices, either. Back in 2019, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed the firm was working on Mini LED-equipped laptops and tablets. He also predicted that Apple would debut the tech in the 12.9in iPad Pro. So there’s a lot in this story that stacks up.
The new Pros are thought to look similar to the current models, but with speedier processors inside. In fact, performance should be “on a par” with Apple’s M1 MacBook Airs, MacBook Pros and Mac Mini, the report says.
Apple’s M1 devices launched last year, and are the first to feature Apple’s own silicon chips, marking a break from Intel’s processors. With Apple making the hardware and software, performance has increased significantly, with noted gains in battery life.
Both the new iPad Pros are also thought to feature new cameras. Both have reportedly been tested with Thunderbolt ports, which would transfer data quicker than the current USB-C. But there’s no word on whether they will launch with Thunderbolt or USB-C.
It’s not just new Pros that Apple has in the iPad pipeline. The company is reportedly working on an iPad Mini with a bigger screen than the current 7.9in, and a standard iPad that’s slimmer and lighter than the current model (that tallies with what we’ve already heard).
Both should launch later this year, possibly around September, a year on from the last iPad range refresh. Of course, that’s also when we’re expecting to see the iPhone 13 launch. Better start saving.
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The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has granted Apple a patent for magnetic connectors that could be used to charge iPhones and iPads, and replace its own Lightning port, Patently Apple reports.
The patent filing shows an accessory connector capable of exchanging power and data with a smartphone-like device.
The connector appears to be designed with water and dirt resistance in mind, using recessed contacts that attach magnetically to the electronic device port, similar to the MagSafe seen on older MacBooks.
Last year, the iPhone 12 saw the introduction of wireless MagSafe charging based on the Qi standard. The charging speeds were limited to a maximum of 15W, slower than the existing Lightning port at 20W. The new wired magnetic connector seen in the patents could potentially be aimed at accelerating charging speeds.
So does this mean the end of the line for the Lightning port? Probably, but not quite yet.
Although Apple has filed a patent, it doesn’t mean the tech will see the light of day. This patent was granted on March 4th 2021 but was filed way back on April 10, 2018. As the iPhone 13 is rumoured to be keeping the Lightning connector, it seems unlikely we’ll be seeing a major change in charging protocol until at least 2022, which also happens to be the Lightning port’s 10th anniversary.
The Lightning port was first introduced with the iPhone 5, replacing the original 30-pin connector used for charging every previous iPhone and iPod. It pushed the industry to adapt and develop new compatible products. Could we see history repeat itself with this new connector?
The development of a potential new charging port comes just over a year after European Parliament members voted to introduce a single charging connection for all mobile phones.
Apple was staunchly against the ruling that threatened to force the company to replace the Lightning port and adopt a common charger.
At the time, Apple said: “Regulations that would drive conformity across the type of connector built into all smartphones freeze innovation rather than encourage it. Such proposals are bad for the environment and unnecessarily disruptive for customers.”
“We want to ensure that any new legislation will not result in the shipment of any unnecessary cables or external adaptors with every device, or render obsolete the devices and accessories used by many millions of Europeans and hundreds of millions of Apple customers worldwide.” The discovery of this new patent puts a slightly different perspective on things, don’t you think?
The OnePlus 9 will launch on 23rd March, OnePlus has confirmed. The firm has sent out invites to an online-only event that kicks off two weeks tomorrow (Tuesday) at 10am EDT, or 2pm GMT.
It has also confirmed some of the phone’s features. For starters, there will be more than one handset, as the company refers to the “OnePlus 9 Series”. 5G will come as standard on at least one of the phones, while there’s also a tie-up with camera firm Hasselblad to boost the device’s imaging ability.
Given it was just an invite, OnePlus stopped short of delivering a full spec list. Recent rumours have included a curved 1440p screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz, 45W fast charging, and reverse wireless charging.
A 120Hz refresh rate would mean better fast-moving images with less blur. High refresh rates are becoming more common in smartphones, as seen in the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S21, and rumoured for the Apple iPhone 13. They’re becoming so commonplace that Samsung is even putting them in its mid-range smartphones.
We’re expecting the OnePlus 9 range to comprise the OnePlus 9, OnePlus 9 Pro and cheaper OnePlus 9R and we’ll be sure to give you a full rundown of all their respective features on the big day.
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Apple’s 2021 iPhones might finally have a smaller notch and, for some models, faster refresh rate displays, according to a new note from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. He also shared rumored information about other upcoming iPhones, including when we could see a foldable phone from Apple.
Let’s start with the iPhone launching this year, which we’ll call it the iPhone 13. Kuo says the iPhone 13 lineup will consist of the same models as the iPhone 12, meaning that despite reports of poor sales of the iPhone 12 mini, the smaller phone could still get a refresh this year (via MacRumors). The two iPhone 13 Pro models will also have 120Hz refresh rate screens thanks to LTPO display technology, according to Kuo, finally bringing the iPhone on par with many Android flagships’ high refresh rate screens.
The iPhone 13 models will all have a smaller notch, Kuo says, though if you wish that Apple would do away with the notch entirely, you might have something to look forward to in 2022. Kuo reports that at least some of the 2022 iPhone models will move to a hole-punch display, which could be similar to many Android phones like Samsung’s Galaxy S21 lineup and Google’s Pixel phones (via MacRumors).
However, in addition to a selfie camera, the iPhone’s notch currently contains components used for Apple’s Face ID biometric authentication system, and Kuo didn’t elaborate on if or how this rumored hole-punch display for iPhones could still pack in everything needed for Face ID. And if you’re dreaming of a iPhone with no visible notch or hole punch, Kuo says that Apple may launch a truly all-screen iPhone in the second half of 2023 at the earliest, according to 9to5Mac.
Kuo also says the iPhone 13 devices will still have a Lightning port, will have Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X60 modem (which is a step up from the X55 modem included in the iPhone 12), and will have larger battery capacities than the iPhone 12.
There’s also a new iPhone SE in the works that will support 5G and have an improved processor, according to Kuo (via MacRumors). This new SE is expected to have a similar form factor as the current $399 model with a 4.7-inch screen and could launch in the first half of 2022, Kuo says.
Kuo has previously reported that Apple has a larger iPhone SE in the works that uses a Touch ID sensor integrated into the power button, which would be similar to the new iPad Air, but it sounds like the 5G-capable iPhone SE may be something different. Kuo said in the new note that “there is no visibility on the current schedule” for Apple to bring power button Touch ID (or, notably, USB-C) to iPhones, according to AppleInsider, leaving the future of this rumored larger iPhone SE uncertain.
Apple is also working on a foldable iPhone with a 7.5- to eight-inch display that could launch in 2023, Kuo says. However, the project seems to be in a very early stage, according to MacRumors’ article about Kuo’s report.
A 2023 launch would be dependent on Apple being able to solve “key technology and mass production issues” this year. He says the product has “not yet officially kicked off,” so it appears to still be in the research stage and previous rumors have indicated Apple could still decide not to proceed with it.
Bloomberg has also reported on Apple’s early plans for a foldable iPhone, saying in January that the company “hasn’t solidified plans to actually launch” the new device.
The OnePlus 9 5G smartphone is due to launch in March alongside the OnePlus 9 Pro and the OnePlus 9R. That’s a lot of OnePlus – but there’s more. The flagship Android phones will be joined by the company’s first-ever smartwatch, the OnePlus Watch.
Tech watcher Ishan Argawal tips the grand unveiling for mid-March (via 91mobiles), while known tipster Mukul Sharma (@StuffListings) says 23rd March could be the big day. Argawal also claims that OnePlus will tease the event “very soon”, so expect a trailer video any day now.
We brought you the first leaked images of the OnePlus 9 a couple of months ago. The next-gen device seems to match the OnePlus 8T with ultra-slim bezels and a pinhole selfie-cam. It’s also tipped for a 6.55-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR support.
The beefier OnePlus 9 Pro model is said to feature a 6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 888 processor with 8GB of RAM and quad-lens camera. Storage will start at 128GB (via OnLeaks).
The budget OnePlus 9R handset is something of a mystery. It was originally tipped to be called the OnePlus 9 “Lite” but has apparently morphed into the OnePlus “9R” in recent days. Either way, it might feature a 1080p HD display and a mid-range Snapdragon 865 processor.
(Image credit: OnePlus)
All three OnePus 9 handsets are expected to come running Android 11 with the company’s redesigned OxygenOS 11 running on top. An OxygenUpdater leak suggests the OnePlus 9 will come in Astral Black, Arctic Sky, and Winter Mist colour options while the 9 Pro is reported to come in Forest Green, Morning Mist, and Stellar Black.
As for the company’s first-ever smartwatch, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau has already confirmed the existence of the device. It’s expected to be called the OnePlus Watch and sketches show it with a circular dial.
There’s no word on pricing yet, but we’d expect the OnePlus 9 5G to debut in a similar ballpark to the 8T – £549 ($649, AU$1099). In the market for a new smartphone? It’s set to be a bumper year for smartphone launches, what with the upcoming launch of the Apple iPhone 13.
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There’s a chance the iPhone 13 might do away with the notch, but could still offer both face ID and Touch ID. That’s if a recently unearthed Apple patent (spotted by Apple Insider) comes to fruition.
The patent is titled ‘Photodetectors Integrated into Thin-Film Transistor Backplanes’. Without going into too much detail, the patent basically details how to embed Touch ID and Face ID sensors under a phone screen. Doing so would enable more ways to unlock the device and authenticate payments without having an unsightly notch eating into the screen space.
These technologies aren’t brand new – phones with in-screen fingerprint sensors and selfie cameras are already on sale, but the execution has been a bit hit and miss. Apple is hoping it can nail both to provide an effortless user experience.
As well as appearing in the iPhone range, the tech could also appear in the Apple Watch, where screen real estate is even more precious. And maybe the iPad range too.
Just because Apple has filed a patent, it doesn’t automatically mean the tech will make an appearance in Apple products. This particular patent was filed in July 2020, which could be too soon for the iPhone 13. But if you’re not particularly enamoured with the notch, the fact the patent even exists could be cause for celebration.
The iPhone 12 family is barely four months old, but already info concerning its successor is emerging. And it seems Apple is planning on overhauling the devices’ screens.
The biggest change? The screens will be always-on, which means important info will always be visible without having to wake the handset. The screen won’t illuminate as brightly as when woken though, which will save battery life.
According to Apple Insider, Apple tipster Max Weinbach reckons the battery indicator and clock will be always visible, though notifications will also pop up using a “bar and icons”. New notifications will only appear momentarily, so won’t always be visible like the other elements.
A similar feature has been seen on certain Android handsets for years.
The screens will be 120Hz, which is double the refresh rate of the current range. That will allow them to render fast-moving action such as sports and games with less blur. The Samsung Galaxy S21 has a 120Hz screen, and Samsung is introducing high refresh rate displays to its mid-range phones this year.
So what else will the new iPhones do? Camera improvements are rumoured, including better ultra-wide lenses with better low-light performance, automatic astrophotography and a portrait video mode. Stronger MagSafe magnets are also on the cards.
Previous rumours include a similar design to the current range, and fingerprint scanners built into the screens themselves.
Expect the iPhone 13 to land this September, in keeping with previous years (apart from last year, when the pandemic delayed the launch by a few weeks). Before then, Apple is rumoured to be launching a new iPhone SE, possibly as early as the spring. We’ll bring you more as we get it.
Mid-range smartphones are rarely exciting, but Samsung’s next two are the exception to that rule. They both feature screens with high refresh rates – a feature previously limited to high-end handsets.
The models in question are the Galaxy A52 (5G) and A72. According to a leak from SamMobile, the former will sport a 120Hz screen (as seen on the Galaxy S21 range), while the A72 will have a 90Hz panel. 90Hz is still no slouch – it’s higher than the 60Hz displays seen on the iPhone 12 range. The standard, non-5G version of the A52 will have a 90Hz screen too.
Obviously a 120Hz screen will require more processing power, so the 5G version of the A52 will have a Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G chip, while the 4G version will have to make do with a Snapdragon 720G.
The 5G A52’s screen will be large, too, at 6.5 inches. Other than that, it will have fairly standard specs for a mid-range phone.
Still, good news for those wanting more advanced display tech from their smartphone. Is it time for Apple to up its game for the iPhone 13?
Samsung’s new A range phones should launch next month.
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The iPhone 12s Pro gets a renewed screen with a smaller notch and an under-display Touch ID sensor. Renders show the new Apple smartphone in detail.
New Apple smartphones are being released every year around September. The iPhone 12 series was introduced last year. Relatively minor changes are expected in 2021, therefore Apple may decide not use the name “iPhone 13”, but will opt for “iPhone 12s” instead. Regardless of which model name Apple chooses, there seem to be four models in the planning. Just like last year, a mini, a base model, a Pro and a Pro Max is expected.
Although it will take several months before Apple will announce the new models, a lot of information has already appeared online about the iPhone 12s series. One of the most frequently heard changes compared to 2020; the notch finally seems to be getting smaller. In this publication we will limit ourselves to the Pro model.
iPhone 12s Pro with updated screen and Touch ID under the display
The design will remain almost identical, after all, the design of the iPhone 12 series has already been renewed. The display size of the iPhone 12s Pro will probably remain the same, however the 6.1-inch OLED display will be improved. The new Pro models will support a high 120 Hertz refresh rate for the first time. It is an LTPO display, which enables an adaptive refresh rate. This allows considerable savings on battery consumption.
Another important change from previous years; Apple will likely implement an under-display fingerprint sensor. The Touch ID functionality that Apple incorporated in the home button for years was praised for a long time. Afterwards, Apple started to focus on advanced 3D Face ID technology. As a result no iPhone models have been released with a fingerprint sensor since 2017 – except for the iPhone SE 2020.
The iPhone 12s Pro / Pro Max will likely be the first smartphones from the US manufacturer to feature a fingerprint sensor under the screen. Apple will probably use a sensor from chip manufacturer Qualcomm. The 5G modems that Apple uses also come from Qualcomm. The Face ID functionality will be maintained, which will simply give users additional options to secure and unlock their smartphone.
The Dutch designer Jermaine Smit, aka Concept Creator, has made a new YouTube video in collaboration with LetsGoDigital in which the expected iPhone 12s Pro can be seen from all sides. The product renders used for this publication are also designed by Jermaine.
Improved camera and new hardware
Apple also seems to make the necessary changes when it comes to the camera. Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported some time ago that the two Pro models will have a greatly improved ultra-wide angle lens (f / 1.8) with autofocus. In addition, Apple seems to want to use larger image sensors this time.
In terms of design, no major changes are expected, although the camera system may be slightly thicker. In addition, in contrary to last year Apple will not make any difference between the camera system of the iPhone 12s Pro and that of the Pro Max. Thus, these two models will mainly differ in display size and battery capacity.
It goes without saying that the new models will also be equipped with the latest hardware and software. The Silicon Valley company seems to integrate a 5nm A15 Bionic chipset this time that makes 5G and WiFi 6th support possible. The iPhone 12 models already offered 5G support, but WiFi 6E is new.
The recently introduced Samsung Galaxy S21 smartphones also support the new WiFi 6E technology. As with WiFi 6, this allows you to achieve higher performance, lower latency and faster data rates. The improved WiFi 6th variant uses the 6Ghz band, which offers more space than the existing 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz frequency bands.
With the new 6Ghz band it is easier to send a lot of data in one go, but the range is more limited than with the already existing 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz frequency bands. The latter bands also remain available with WiFi 6e.
Battery and MagSafe charging accessory
As for the battery, last year the Pro model was equipped with a 3,046mAh battery. This guarantees 17 hours of video watching or 11 hours of video streaming. The device supports 20W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. The 12s Pro will probably have similar battery specs.
It has long been rumored that Apple wants to introduce at least one phone model without a charging port. This device will only support wireless charging. This is where the new MagSafe charging system comes in handy, which was announced at the time of the iPhone 12 series. With this accessory you can charge the device wirelessly with a maximum charging power of 15W.
Incidentally, it recently became known that both the iPhone 12 smartphones and the MagSafe accessories can pose a danger to people with a pacemaker or other medical implants. The many magnets can create an electromagnetic field, which disrupts pacemakers and defibrillators.
Apple therefore advises to keep a minimum distance of 15 cm between the pacemaker and the mentioned Apple products at all times. A minimum distance of 30cm is recommended during wireless charging. Obviously, it is not only iPhones that suffer from this. Electronic products are increasingly fitted with magnets, all of which can pose a hazard to medical devices.
You will probably have heard that since the launch of the iPhone 12, Apple does not include a charger or EarPods in the sales package. Now that Samsung has also decided to no longer supply a charger or earplugs with the Galaxy S21 series, this trend seems to be continuing. Despite this decision, Apple can look back on a very successful launch, the sales numbers of the 12 series are significantly higher than in previous years.
Recently published quarterly figures show that the sales numbers of the 12 series are no less than 17% higher than those of the 11 series, in the same period a year earlier. Consumers have therefore not punished Apple for omitting the charger and earphones. In contrast, the addition of 5G seems to have been a reason for many to buy a new iPhone.
iPhone 13 or iPhone 12s series?
When it comes to the naming, earlier this month Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reported that Apple is considering opting for an “s” upgrade this year as no major changes are being made. This is partly due to COVID-19, due to the continuing pandemic Apple engineers can only be found a few days a week, in limited numbers, at the Silicon Valley offices. This makes product development a lot more complicated.
Shortly after the publication of Gurman, Apple analyst Jon Prosser confirmed that this time the name will indeed be iPhone 12s. Obviously nothing has been confirmed yet, but it does not sound entirely unlikely. After all, Apple has used the addition “s” more often when it came to minor upgrades. Consider, for example, the iPhone 6s / 6s Plus and the more recently introduced iPhone Xs / Xs Max.
Jon Prosser also claims that Apple will probably never release an iPhone 13 series. Superstition would play an important role in this. Because “13” is an unlucky number in Western countries, Apple would immediately want to opt for iPhone 14 next year.
No concrete information is yet known about the price of the new iPhone models. The iPhone XS, the one year later announced iPhone 11 Pro and the even more recent iPhone 12 Pro all came at a starting price of € 1,160. With the latter model, the minimum storage capacity was doubled to 128GB.
The iPhone 12s Pro will probably have a similar suggested retail price and will also be offered in the same memory variants: 128GB, 256GB and 512GB. Apple is expected to announce the four new smartphone models in September 2021.
Note to editors : The product images in this publication are created in collaboration with Jermaine Smit, aka Concept Creator. These 3D renders are for illustrative purposes only. This product is not for sale, Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 2021 series in September. The images are copyright protected. Feel free to use these materials on your own website, please be so respectful to include a source link into your publication.
Leaked renders of the iPad mini 6 suggest that Apple is on the verge of a major change in direction – for its tablets and perhaps later on for its phones too. The images come @xleaks7 and CoverPigtou, a collaboration that has a good (though not perfect) track record when it comes to leaking designs of upcoming devices.
Look at the renders and notice what is there and what isn’t there. This tablet could become Apple’s first device to feature a punch hole front camera. And there is no FaceID hardware, the mini will keep using a fingerprint reader.
And not just any FP reader, this one that appears to be inside a punch hole itself (as in, not an under-display reader). Two punch holes and on an iPad mini of all things? These renders should be approached with a healthy does of skepticism.
Apple iPad mini 6 (unofficial renders)
Even if the selfie camera does go in a punch hole, the FP reader could be relocated to the power button, just like on the new iPad Air. Under-dispay readers are quite cheap too and won’t require the UI to go around the permanent circle of such a reader (they would require a switch to OLED panels, though).
Perhaps, this is less crazy than it sounds – last week Bloomberg published a report, saying that the iPhone 13 will have an in-display reader. That report implied an under-display reader rather than a punch hole though.
Size comparison – iPad mini 6 vs. iPhone 12 Pro • Bottom view of the iPad mini 6
Anyway, the last iPad mini had very chunky bezels. Slimming those down will allow the display to grow to 9.15” (up from 7.9”) while keeping the slate’s dimensions essentially the same – 203.2 x 134.8 x 6.25 mm.
Last year Ming-Chi Kuo did predict a 9-inch mini, but the analyst made no mention of such major design changes. Most of the predictions have been centered on the arrival of microLED panels and those are headed to an iPad Pro.
Apple is expected to unveil new iPads in March, so we’ll see how much of these punch hole and microLED rumors prove to be true in a couple of months.
Like the idea of a foldable iPhone? Well, you’ll be pleased to know that according to Bloomberg, Apple has started prototyping foldable screens.At this stage, it’s only the display that Apple has started work on, not the body, so a consumer model is likely still years away, but it bodes well for a foldable future.
It would see Apple follow rivals such as Samsung, Motorola, LG, Huawei who already have folding smartphones on sale.
Apple’s entry into a category is generally seen as its mainstream moment. The Apple Watch saw a surge in interest in wearables, for instance, as did the AirPods for wireless earbuds.
According to the report, Apple is working on foldable screens with a “mostly invisible hinge” that could unfold to around the size of the iPhone 12 Pro Max. However, the firm is currently considering multiple different screen sizes.
One of the biggest advantages of foldable screens is that they can offer a tablet-esque experience from a device that fits in your pocket. That could make it better for watching films and playing games, as well as seeing detailed views of apps such as maps.
Foldable phones have had a rocky start, with certain models breaking during testing. Apple is undoubtedly watching the competition with interest and will want to do its own extensive testing before deciding whether to launch its own model.
A foldable iPhone won’t launch any time soon, however. This year’s iPhone 13 is expected to have just “minor upgrades” according to the same report. One such upgrade could be an under-screen fingerprint sensor. This would allow fingerprint authentication for unlocking the screen and verifying payments. Apple did away with the home button and its built-in Touch ID fingerprint authentication when it launched the iPhone X in 2017.
What else can we expect this year? Apple is reportedly considering removing the Lightning socket in favour of wireless charging on some iPhone models, its AirTags tracking tags should launch, and it’s rumoured that there are two new iPads on the way – the new iPad Pro could have a Mini LED screen, while the entry-level iPad would be slimmer than the current iPad (2020).
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The iPhone 13 arriving later this year will not come with major changes but it might have an in-display fingerprint scanner in tow since Apple has started testing it as a key upgrade for 2021, reports Bloomberg.
Starting with iPhone X, all iPhones except the iPhone SE (2020) came without the Touch ID fingerprint reader and used Face ID facial recognition for biometric authentication.
However, Face ID has turned out to be a less practical solution amidst the ongoing pandemic since the technology often fails to unlock the phone when the user is wearing a mask. So you either have to pull down your mask, or enter the security code to unlock your iPhone.
But that will not be an issue with the iPhone 13 lineup if it packs an in-display fingerprint scanner – a feature that’s been around on Android smartphones for a few years now.
iPhone SE (2020) with Touch ID
The report claims Apple won’t move away from Face ID, but it has discussed removing the charging port on some iPhone models in favor of wireless charging.
The source further claims that Apple is working on an iPhone with a foldable screen and has already developed prototype foldable displays for internal testing. These screens have invisible hinges similar to Samsung’s foldable displays and one of them unfolds to a 6.7″ size.
However, Apple hasn’t finalized its plans to launch a foldable iPhone and doesn’t have any prototypes yet.
The Bloomberg report also states that Apple is working on two new tablets – a new iPad Pro with a faster processor and a MiniLED display, and an entry-level iPad with the same design as iPad Air (2019).
Source
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