New reports on the Apple iPhone 7 feature a host of major developments in store for the highly anticipated device - hardly surprising if one is to look at Apple Inc.'s track record on its iPhone design cycle.
Latest reports claim that the tech pioneer is set on creating a thinner, stronger and first ever waterproof smartphone.
Below are the expected upgrades on the iPhone 7, which could position the device on top of the market.
iPhone 7 Design
For starters, a thinner metal-clad redesigned body from the 7.1mm iPhone 6 is expected of the phone, according to the Bonham Journal.
This report comes after rumors that the headphone jack will be removed from the phone. In fact, the rumor started way back 2012, and next year, Apple loyalists could finally see the speculation come true.
The headphone jack will reportedly be replaced by a lightning port or Bluetooth to make way for a thinner design.
iPhone 7 Camera
The handset is also expected to sport a more advanced camera, as well as an upgraded multi-Force Touch feature and dual camera set-up, which according to Sccougar News, has been in development since the release of the iPhone 6s.
iPhone 7 Display
A surprising change to the phone is the possibility of removal of the home button.
In addition, according to the Daily Sabah, there have been reports that Apple has been communicating with its screen providers LG and Samsung for the replacement of crystal display (LCD) technology to OLED display.
As for the size of the screen on the iPhone 7, there have not been many reports, but a few claim of a standard 4.7-inch screen and a 5.2-inch for the larger version.
iPhone 7 Waterproofed
This is perhaps the most surprising report of all. After many years of Apple confidently creating non-waterproof iPhones, it appears that the tech giant wants to change that. There could be emerging pressure since rivals like Sony and Samsung have successfully made possible such technology, which could pose a big demand in the future.
According to the iPhone 7 waterproof rumors, IP68 standards will be set for the smartphone, an upgrade from the normal IP67 standard that allows phones to resist water up to 30 minutes and up to a depth of 1 meter.
iPhone 7 Other Specs
Other reports on the phone's specs include a Tesla-created battery and an A9 processor.
However, Sccougar News notes that the RAM could pose a drawback since it could remain at the 2GB range.
iPhone 7 Release Date
KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo speculates an autumn release for the so-called iPhone 7, either September or October 2016. However, considering the analyst's track record when it comes to rumors, this speculation, just like any other reports prior to an official announcement from Apple, should be taken with a grain of salt.
With weak demand for this year's iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, the aforementioned expectations could come true, and if that happens, there is no doubt the iPhone 7 could become the best device in the smartphone market.