9to5Mac has learned that Apple is currently testing a number of new iPhone prototypes at its headquarters in California. All of these are locked in shells to disguise the exterior design. At least two of these, identified as the iPhone 5,1 and iPhone 5,2, have a larger display than the 3.5-inch one used in all models released so far.
Both prototypes apparently sport 3.95-inch displays. These are as wide as the currently used ones (1.94-inch) but are longer (3.45-inch). The resolution has also been increased from 640 by 960 to 640 by 1136 pixels.
Image credit: 9to5Mac
The longer display will allow Apple to add a fifth row of icons on the home screen. It will also allow app developers to offer more screen real estate for additional content on their apps’ user interfaces.
Two separate reports last week indicated that Apple had placed orders for 4-inch displays with its suppliers. A number of previous reports also suggested that Apple was looking at bigger displays for its next iPhone.
The report adds that both prototype sport the previously-rumoured smaller dock connector. It is about the size of a micro-USB connector.
Read more: 9to5Mac