By now it’s almost certain that Apple will launch three iPhone models with iPhone X-like notches this year, with multiple analysts, supply chain sources and sources within the company indicating the development.
The new lineup includes the affordable iPhone X-like model with a 6.1-inch LCD panel made by JDI. The two other models, however, are expected to feature OLED screens, one of which is being referred to in the media as the ‘iPhone X Plus‘. Now, latest reports about the phone suggest that it will have a similar footprint to that of the iPhone 8 Plus, in spite of the massive difference in the display sizes.
According to Japanese tech blog Macotakara, the overall size of the iPhone X Plus will be almost identical to that of the iPhone 8 Plus. The publication is citing a ‘reliable supplier information source’ to report that the upcoming device will be only around 0.2mm thicker than the iPhone 8 Plus to accommodate the ‘mounting form of the rear camera’.
While the iPhone X Plus is rumored to come with a massive 6.5-inch screen, the current iPhone 8 Plus sports a standard 5.5-inch panel. However, with the next-gen iPhone expected to adopt the latest trend and embrace the 2:1 aspect ratio, it is quite possible that the reduced bezels will help the company squeeze in the massive screen in a reasonably-sized device.
The report also claims that the iPhone X Plus will ship with a larger camera sensor and a larger lens aperture, both of which should enhance the image quality on the flagship 2018 iPhone; at least, in theory.
Meanwhile, in what can turn out to be another interesting development, the Japanese publication also suggests that iOS 12 will support horizontal Face ID unlocking. The technology only works in the standard portrait (vertical) mode right now. Either way, all this is speculation right now, and we will probably hear more at Apple’s WWDC event next month.
