We are just one month away from the expected iPhone 7 launch and as we get closer the rumor mill is hotting up with what we can expect from Apple’s latest flagship device. So too is the increase in leaked photos, mockups and videos hinting at some of the iPhone 7’s rumored features. However, as none of these features have been confirmed by Apple, at this stage, all of them remain rumors.
iPhone 7 rumors that we have reported on previously include a larger battery, increased storage to 256 GB and a dual-lens camera for the iPhone 7 Plus. The Lightning port will replace the 3.5mm headphone jack and there will be redesigned antenna bands on all models. While for the first time for Apple, the iPhone 7 models will be water resistant.
We look at the additional iPhone 7 rumors and videos that are currently making the rounds, but we will have to wait another month before all is confirmed.
Release date & availability
If previous iPhone launch dates are anything to go on and with the event normally taking place on a Wednesday or Thursday, the iPhone 7 will launch on September 6, 7, 13 or 14. Renowned technology leaker, Evan Blass predicts that the iPhone 7 will go on sale on September, 16.
Just to clarify, this refers to the retail release, not the launch event. To be even more specific, it should happen on Friday, Sept. 16th.
— Evan Blass (@evleaks) July 23, 2016
Pricing of the iPhone 7 is likely to stay on par with last year’s models with prices starting at $650.
Three possible iPhone 7 models
The likely possibility is that Apple will continue with its two model lineup in the form of the 4.7-inch iPhone 7 and the 5.5-inch iPhone 7 Plus with a dual-lens camera. However, rumors have cropped up sporadically, most recently in a high-definition video, suggesting Apple will launch the 4.7-inch model, plus two 5.5-inch models named the Plus and the Pro.
iPhone 7 Plus mockup
Chinese company BeSound is currently running an Indiegogo campaign to raise funding for its Lightning-enabled noise canceling headphones. To help promote its campaign, which has already reached and surpassed its $10,000 goal, BeSound create an iPhone 7 mockup. While this isn’t the first iPhone 7 mockup to crop up it does seem to be the best-produced one.
The iPhone 7 mockup comes in a deep blue color, unique to any other Apple iPhone offering, which has been rumored in the past. Other features include the lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack, more subtle antenna lines, dual camera and a second set of speaker holes. There are also three Smart Connector pins on the rear of the device.
Popular YouTuber Lewis Hilsenteger from Unbox Therapy, was sent the prototype for a hands-on review below. Hilsenteger suggests the Smart Connector pins could possibly be used for wireless charging, a keyboard dock, etc.
Wireless headphones or headphones with Lightning connector
Rumors have been making the rounds that Apple, together with Beats Electronics, are working on wireless earbuds, called ‘AirPods’. However, what is more likely at this stage is that Apple will release an updated version of its EarPods.
A video from MobileFunTV shows the possible new headphones that could be the version that will be launched with the iPhone 7 next month. The EarPods look very similar to the current version with the only difference being the headphone jack connector has been replaced with a Lightning connector.
Other rumored features for the iPhone 7 models
While the iPhone 7 Plus is rumored to receive an updated dual-lens camera, the smaller 4.7-inch iPhone is also rumored to get an upgraded camera, with images showing an enlarged lens.
A rumored dark blue color, as seen in the hands-on video above, has been making the rounds, which is vastly different to Apple’s current offering. While other color rumors include a ‘space black’ version.
Other rumors include a redesigned Home button and Intel Corp. could be providing a modem for connecting to wireless LTE networks. A guarantee is that the iPhone 7 will include a faster chip, possibly called the A10.
2017 iPhone model
We are still a month away from seeing the final version of the iPhone 7; however, this hasn’t stopped rumors about the 2017 iPhone model making the rounds for the last few months. Rumors about the 2017 model include a glass body with an edge-to-edge screen, no more Home button removed and integrated Touch ID. It will also likely allow for wireless charging.
With the launch of the 2017 model still over a year away, this list of rumors will increase dramatically as we enter the new year.
Source: Business Insider
Image credit: iphonedigital; Flickr