While Apple is focused on the upcoming announcement next week of its new iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C, you know that its Research & Development teams are already at work on the next generations of iPhones. Having faced considerable criticism and customer demand for smartphones with larger displays, it appears that Apple is getting ready to jump into the phablet space.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple is currently evaluating devices with displays ranging in size from 4.8 inches to 6 inches. The move could eventually allow Apple to adopt a multi-size, multi-device strategy rather than its current one device model (excluding the discounted and older models offered alongside). Component suppliers support the report, adding that Apple appears to be particularly interested in the 4.8-inch display.
Rumours about an iPhone with a 4.8-inch display are not new. As far back as early January, there were rumours of Apple working on such a device codenamed “Math.” A 8MP camera with lenses from Largan Precision was also on tap for that device.
It would not be the first time that Apple switches from a single product strategy to a diversified one. As the iPod matured, it expanded into a family of devices with different form factors. A similar move with the iPhone would allow Apple to cater to a wider range of customers and fend off competitors such as Samsung that already offer a range of devices.
One thing is clear: It is highly unlikely that we will see any phablet (iPhablet?) announcement next week. We will likely have to wait at least until the iPhone 6.