New report claims that Apple is planning 3 different iPhones

Dec 29, 2016 10:59 GMT  ·  By

​If you’re a long-time Apple watcher, you probably heard that headline before, but here’s something which, according to a new report, is all but confirmed.

We’ve known for a while that Apple is working on three different iPhones for the 2017 generation, and while the first two are likely to come with the same dimensions as the existing models, the third has been pretty much an enigma for all of us.

Digitimes, however, claims that Taiwan-based supply chain makers are already aware of Apple’s plans to build a third model with a 5.8-inch display that would be manufactured by Samsung. This particular model is expected to boast an OLED panel, just like we’ve heard before, and feature a new form factor, possibly without bezels and a Home button.

It goes without saying that we should all take this report with a pinch of salt, but the same source says that Apple will stick with LCD panels for the other two models, while working with Samsung (exclusively!) on building the third iPhone with a 5.8-inch display.

Bigger iPhone, smaller bezels

Apple reportedly expects to sell up to 70 million iPhones with an OLED screen and Samsung is the only manufacturer that has such a high manufacturing capacity.

Additionally, Apple has signed a deal with Japan-based Nissha Printing to receive touch sensors that will be used on models with AMOLED displays, while assembling will be the responsibility of Samsung Display or TPK Holding and General Interface Solution.

The same source notes that Apple is aiming to start production of the new iPhone in March next year before a possible September launch.

Previously, we’ve seen reports indicating that the next-year iPhone could come with a completely new form factor that would entirely remove bezels and integrate all front-facing part in the display for a more consistent design. It’s not clear if this is still the plan for Apple, but now it’s all but confirmed: a third model is coming and it’ll have an OLED display.