“Given the popularity of the 4-inch form factor, it’s quite likely that Apple will introduce a replacement for the aging iPhone 5S — at some point. Of course, with the 6S nomenclature already taken, the company will have to adopt an alternative coinage,” Justin Jaffe reports for CNET. “Currently, the leading candidate seems to be the iPhone 6C, though the iPhone Mini has also been bandied about.”
“Some sources are reporting that Apple is planning a product introduction for March 2016. Given that this timing would coincide the Apple Watch’s first birthday, it’s highly likely that such an event would be focused on its successor.,” Jaffe reports. “And yet it’s plausible that the iPhone 6C could also arrive then, with a retail launch following just days later.”
“That noted, Apple Insider reports that veteran Apple tea-leaf reader Gene Munster expects that the iPhone 6C may actually be introduced alongside the iPhone 7 next September. (Would it then be called ‘iPhone 7C’? That’s anybody’s guess),” Jaffe reports. “If we assume that the 6C will become Apple’s new entry-level model, don’t expect the latest and greatest specs on this model. That said, it’s possible that Apple could move from the 2013-era A7 chip found in the iPhone 5S, and use the same A8 chip from the more recent iPhone 6/6 Plus. If true, don’t expect Live Photos (which are dependent on the newer A9 processor.)”
Much more in the full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: Rumors are all over the map regarding this next-gen 4-inch iPhone and some of them even include the device being powered by Apple’s A9, in line with iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus. That “rumor” originates with KGI Securities’ analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who has a very strong track record when it comes to iPhone materials, specs, and features. So don’t give up on Live Photos just yet.
SEE ALSO:
Apple plans Apple Watch 2 event for March; 4-inch ‘iPhone 6c’ may also be unveiled – December 8, 2015
Rumor: Apple will be unveiling the 4-inch iPhone 7c next September, not an ‘iPhone 6c’ in February – December 4, 2015
Analyst: Apple’s new 4-inch iPhone will feature state-of-the-art A9 chip, launch in early 2016 – December 3, 2015