Apple Inc. (AAPL) Might Not Launch Full-Screen OLED iPhone 8

A new report on Tuesday suggests that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) might not launch an OLED “iPhone 8” model without a home button.

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The tech giant is still testing multiple iPhone models and it has not finalized yet an “iPhone Edition” that would debut alongside “iPhone 7s” and “7s Plus” handsets this fall, Mac Otakara (via Apple Insider) reported, citing a source familiar with the development.

According to previous reports, Apple will release a 5.8-inch iPhone with edge-to-edge OLED display in September. Tentatively dubbed the iPhone 8, the flagship handset is said to feature a long-distance wireless charging, an edge-to-edge OLED display, and a “revolutionary” front-facing 3D camera.

The Japanese newspaper claims that a similar next-generation iPhone prototype is being evaluated by Apple’s team, but the company might not elect to manufacture this model.

According to the report, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) currently has multiple prototypes in the testing and evaluation stage, both with and without Touch ID home button. “Other iterations under consideration incorporate IPS TFT or AMOLED screens and chassis designs made from glass, aluminum, white ceramic and other exotic materials,” Mac Otakara reported.

The newspaper also mentioned that recent analyst reports regarding the upcoming iPhone model are based on Apple requests for material samples. The paper called the recent predictions about the iPhone 8 to be “somewhat misleading.”

“In order to move from the engineering verification testing (EVT) stage to design verification testing (DVT), the company needs to discern which components are available or will be available, in time for production later this year. The inquiries do not necessarily reflect intent, meaning analysts are offering information on prototypes that may not make the cut,” reads Apple Insider report.

In addition, the report claims that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is looking to announce the iPhone 8 alongside “iPhone 7s” and “7s Plus” models in September, but will likely release the smartphone at a much later date.

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