Latest rumors pertaining to iPhone 8 release date, specs, and features surfaced online claiming that Apple will launch a new mid-range smartphone under the iPhone 8 brand.
Known Apple tipster Macotakara cited sources from the Taiwanese supply chain claiming that Apple will unveil a 5-inch iPhone with similar specifications with iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus. The "s" models usually have minor updates based on Apple's tick-tock cycle. Thus, the 5-inch iPhone 8 may have almost similar specs with the current iPhone 7, 7 Plus.
If rumors proved to be true, it is speculated that Apple will kill the iPhone SE line. The iPhone SE is Apple's take on the mid-range market. The smartphone was released in March as a replacement for iPhone 5S. It retained its 4-inch screen while including some of the specs and features of iPhone 6S such as the updated processor, rear camera, and support for iOS 9 software features such as Apple Pay, always-on Siri activation, and Live Photos.
While the reaction towards the smartphone is positive, it is still considered to be more expensive that other mid-range smartphones in the market.
The supposed 5-inch iteration is also rumored to feature a dual-lens camera array with iSight modules arranged vertically rather than the horizontal configuration introduced with iPhone 6s Plus. Meanwhile, according to well-connected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the top-tier model will feature exotic technology like a flexible OLED screen measuring 5.1 or 5.2 inches, invisible Touch ID home button, wireless charging and a "glass sandwich" enclosure.
iPhone 8 marks the 10th anniversary of the smartphone. It is a perfect time to change and revolutionizing the line is the right time. Rumors claimed that iPhone 8 release date will be in March following the release of the first iPhone. However, this should be taken lightly as Apple has released no official statement yet.