For the past few years, from an innovation standpoint, Apple (AAPL) has been marred by a lackluster reputation. Since Steve Jobs passed away, Apple has failed to produce iconic, revolutionary devices. Instead of developing new technology, Apple has, to its credit, tweaked existing products. In essence, the company generates more hype than it does product features; and, although Apple possesses a cult like following, consumers have seemingly grown tired of Apple's business model. Thus, many hope that Apple will far surpass upcoming product expectations. As anticipation mounts for the iPhone 6 and rumored iWatch, reports have emerged creating more public speculation about an increasingly secretive Apple (click here to see why Motorola may have the upper hand with its 360 smart watch).
Recode recently reported that Apple has scheduled a large media event for September 9th, where not one, but two new iPhones will be announced. Recode also contends that September 9th is a historically significant day for Apple to release its new iPhone line, as it was also the day the company unveiled its new line of iPods, in 2009.
So... with rumors and speculation aplenty, the imperative questions are: what will the iPhone 6 look like, and how will it differentiate itself from its predecessors? As with all Apple news, rumors have been circulating within the tech world for months; fierce debates about how Apple will “wow” consumers are now commonplace. So, to save you from insanity, we've gathered the rumors that appear most likely, and have concisely explained them below.
Firstly, it's essentially guaranteed that Apple will release two new iPhones this fall, though the larger version may be delayed due to Sapphire Glass supply constraints. Both will most certainly contain screens larger than the current iPhone 5s. One iPhone will likely have a 4.5” screen, a half-inch increase over the four-inch 5s, whereas the other model will likely have a screen over 5.5". This model will compete with Android-powered “phablets,” primarily produced by longtime Apple competitor Samsung.
In terms of software, the iPhone 6 will be released alongside iOS 8. The new operating system will include features that fully utilize Apple’s fingerprint scanner. Passwords will likely become remnants of the past, as users will be able to verify their identity with a simple finger swipe. Native health, finance, and payment apps will also further simplify the user experience.
Lastly, the iPhone 6 will undeniably be compatible with Apple's new smart watch. Although it is unlikely that the iWatch will be released alongside the iPhone 6, there is no doubt that a consumer model will soon enter production. Furthermore, when paired with the iPhone 6, Apple's iWatch will allow users to easily read texts and email, and also monitor health patterns.
Although there are endless rumors surrounding the release and features of the iPhone 6, the upgrades I have outlined will most likely come to fruition. However, these estimates should not be set in stone. Apple could easily wow consumers with far more innovative features, and imitate its past self. Or it could, just as easily, disappoint customers with features that have long been standard on Android devices. Only time will tell.