Apple might have plans of producing 5.8-inch touch screen display for the next iPhone model, 0.3 inches larger than the current iPhone 6S Plus. (Photo : YouTube/ConceptsiPhone)
Apple might have plans of producing 5.8-inch touch screen display for the next iPhone model, 0.3 inches larger than the current iPhone 6s Plus.
While there have been doubts that the next plus-size iPhone would be larger than its current dimensions, it is likely that the screen is larger because it wraps around the sides of the device, basically without bezels.
With Apple's recent patent filings, it may not be too far from reality. In 2011, Apple hinted at the use of an extended display that would present virtual buttons and switches, and show different kinds of information. While the current iPhone still has the sleep/wake button, the volume buttons, and the silent switch, these could be removed in the future in favor of the extended display, which would offer more flexibility.
App-specific or personalized functions and controls can be implemented through the flexible display, instead of being limited to a single-purpose hardware button, which can increase or decrease volume. The button for flash could be placed on the side panel while inside the Camera app.
Apple's second related patent suggests it has been experimenting with different designs for the wraparound display. With many different shapes, from squared off to cylindrical, there are many possibilities the company may end up going with.
MacRumors has previously reported that Apple plans to introduce their first iPhones with flexible OLED displays by 2017 or 2018. Aside from the added functionality that flexible displays bring, the benefits brought by the display itself is worth noting.
OLED displays are capable of displaying a more realistic image, a wide array of colors, and screen uniformity. With the recent launch of Samsung's flagship Galaxy S7 edge line, which boasts a distinctive curved screen with a side display, it is expected that Apple would follow suit.
However, given that most of the patents Apple applies for never goes into use, there is still this possibility that a wraparound screen would not come to the iPhone. The only thing that is certain is Apple is working on the development of the iPhone display, and is at least considering OLED.
Watch the iPhone wrap around screen concept video below:
