“Supply chain scuttlebutt over a new 4-inch iPhone continues to accumulate, with the latest rumors suggesting Apple will name its revamped handset the ‘iPhone 5e,’ with the letter ‘e’ potentially signifying that it is an ‘enhanced’ version of the iPhone 5s,” Neil Hughes reports for AppleInsider.
“The rumored name comes from a new report published Monday by China’s MyDrivers, which suggested the ‘iPhone 5e’ is currently in production at Foxconn, ahead of an anticipated March release,” Hughes reports. “Keeping the device a mid-range handset, it was also said that the “iPhone 5e” will be limited to two capacities: 16 and 64 gigabytes, lacking the 128-gigabyte options found on the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6s lineups.”
“Monday’s report suggests the defining features of the ‘iPhone 5e’ will be support for Apple Pay, as well as voice over LTE capabilities for higher fidelity audio calls,” Hughes reports. “The device was also said to be priced at 3,288 yuan, which is about $500 U.S.”
Read more in the full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: That’d go over like a lead balloon.
In December, we ran a poll asking: “Want a 4-inch iPhone? What’s the LEAST it’d take for you to buy one?”
A whopping 84% wanted the same features and specs as current-gen iPhones.
The full results (576 votes):
• 67.88%: Only if it offered the same materials, features, and specs as current-gen iPhones
• 16.15%: In a polycarbonate case, but with the same features and specs as current-gen iPhones
• 12.5%: Whatever, I don’t care, as long as it’s got a 4-inch screen
• 3.47%: In a polycarbonate case with “last year’s” iPhone features and specsSEE ALSO:
Apple could launch 4-inch ‘iPhone 7c’ as soon as March, China Mobile leaks – January 2, 2016
Apple’s 4-inch ‘iPhone 6c’ said to feature A9 processor, 2 GB RAM, and a larger battery – December 29, 2015
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