Apple Inc. could debut new models of its iPhone over the next year with bigger screens, in addition to cheaper models in different colors, according to Reuters, citing sources.
The changes are still under discussion and subject to change. The larger iPhone models – at least two could be introduced next year – could have 4.7-inch and 5.7-inch screens, the report said. Apple is expected to debut two models this year. One model will feature new fingerprint technology and the second model will be a cheaper version, encased in plastic that could come in different colors, Reuters said. The cheaper model’s release could be pushed to next year and could sell for $99. Apple declined to comment.
The iPhone 5 launched last September was the first to veer away from the Apple phone’s 3.5-inch screen, which Jobs famously deemed “the perfect size for consumers” and had been used in every iPhone since the iconic device was unveiled in 2007.
The current iPhone 5 has one of the smaller screens among the best-selling smartphones in the mobile market, where consumers spend more time browsing the web and streaming content. Samsung’s Galaxy S4 and Galaxy Note 2 have 5-inch and 5.5-inch screens, respectively.
For this year, Apple is expected to launch two new models, widely referred to as the iPhone 5S, with new fingerprint technology, and a cheaper version in plastic casing, supply chain sources have said. Apple plans to dress up the cheaper phone in a range of 5-6 colors to differentiate it from the more expensive model that has traditionally come only in black and white.
The U.S. firm has discussed a price of $99 for the cheaper phone, the timing of which could slip to next year, one of the people said. It’s not yet clear what the final price would be.
