Apple hit strides with the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus when both devices hit the market this year. But this early, most consumers are already excited about what the company will offer next year.
Recent rumors suggested that Apple will likely release the iPhone 7 in September 2015. Reports also indicated that the next Apple device will be named iPhone 6s, but the Cupertino-based company is reportedly planning to drop the "S" naming convention after getting negative feedback about it over the past several years.
According to Macworld, the iPhone 7 will likely feature a 4.7-inch or 5.5-inch screen size again, pointing out that Apple is expected to stick with the two sizes for the next two years.
The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus design could also be retained, but it could feature "sidewall displays" that extends the display of the device onto the sides where users can access music player controls and other functionalities through a touch sensitive portion.
Economic Daily News also suggested that the iPhone 7 could have a 3D display. Apple's supply chain partner, TPK, is reportedly trying to develop a 3D screen that the does not require users to wear the traditional 3D glasses.
Macworld also suggested that Apple could use different materials for the iPhone 7 to make it more durable than the current iPhones. Instead of the usual Gorilla Glass, Apple might use Sapphire glass similar to that of their Apple Watch. Sapphire glass is ideal for bigger display because it has higher durability than the Gorilla glass.
The next iPhone is expected to be powered by Apple's A9 processor that features a 14-nanometer design - smaller, more powerful and more efficient than the A8 chip.
According to Digitimes, Apple might strike a deal with Samsung, who is aiming to become the sole manufacturer of the A9 processor and future chips from their rival company. The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company manufactured most of the A8 chips used by Apple in their recent products.
The iPhone 7 is expected to have a better camera than the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. According to the report, iPhone 7's camera might feature a two-lens system, which will allow users to capture DSLR-quality photos with their device.
