14 DAY TRIAL // The most anticipated iPhone upgrade since 2007, Apple’s next-generation iPhone 6 will reportedly feature a larger display (possibly two different models with two different screen sizes) and a redesigned chassis for a slimmer figure and an overall bigger form factor.
A mold leaked by MobileDirect.ro appears to have the exact same dimensions as other dies photographed in Asia and subsequently published in the European tech blogosphere as well as the United States. There are, however, some discrepancies between the previous casts and this one.
Of particular interest are the holes drilled through the piece. It isn’t clear what they’re for, though most people discussing the leak agree these serve as a mounting system.
The mold is supposedly fitted to a machine (presumably a robotic arm) and moved around to pick up molten material, then have the plastic/rubber/silicone peeled off to achieve an end-case with the shape of the iPhone 6. The holes are likely there to also have pistons running through them.
These casts are created after a manufacturer of iPhone cases receives official specifications pertaining to a device model – in this case, iPhone 6. Apple is known to offer these specs to accessory makers, but only after confirming the device, not before. The reason is to avoid leaks, which obviously isn’t working very well for the Cupertino giant, despite its CEO promising to double down on secrecy.
There’s also a chance these case manufacturers (as there is more than one doing this) are actually jumping the gun.
Avid readers will recall that the iPhone 6 dimensions were leaked to a Japanese magazine well over a month ago, and all subsequent case molds and mockups have been created based on those particular specifications.
In all fairness, MobileDirect could be in possession of the same numbers, which may or may not be accurate.
A larger version of the phone is said to feature a phablet-grade display measuring 5.5 inches on the diagonal, which would also make the phone itself considerably taller and wider – essentially a phablet.
With the Worldwide Developers Conference less than two weeks away, there are quite a few people who expect the phone(s) to be unveiled during the June 2 opening keynote. However, it is reasonable to assume that Apple will not break tradition, choosing only to unveil the latest advancements in software before moving onto the year’s exciting hardware announcements.
According to a prominent analyst with an impressive track record of predictions who is watching Apple up close, the company’s major announcements for 2014 will all be crammed in the late summer – early fall period.
Major announcements expected from the Cupertino giant include a revamped television experience through an upgraded set-top box, a 12-inch MacBook Pro with Retina resolution, the elusive iWatch and, of course, the next-generation iPhone 6.