Analysts Expect Curved, bezel-free iPhones For Next Year
Apple is rumored to release two iPhones that will have curved, bezel-free displays next year. According to Barclays Research analysts, the 5-inch and 5.8-inch bezel-free iPhones with borderless design will allow for the new iPhones to be the same overall size as current 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch models, MacRumors.com reported.
Of the two prospect releases, only the 5.8-inch model will use OLED display technology, according to the analysts. Barclays also expects that the screen will extend vertically as well as horizontally.
Samsung and LG, joined by Foxconn-owned Sharp by 2018, are said to be Apple's primary OLED suppliers.
An analyst from KGI Securities Ming-Chi Kuo had in March said that Apple will launch a 5.8-inch iPhone with a curved OLED display and glass casing next year, the research note mentioned.
Nikkei has also reported that the larger-screened iPhone will be a premium model, positioned alongside 4.7-inch and 5-inch iPhones with LCD displays.
There are reports that a bezel-free design by Apple will be achieved by removing the iconic Home button on the next iPhone. Rival Samsung is also expected to remove the home button on its bezel-free Galaxy S8 model.