Looks like Apple has just launched the 2020 series of the iPhone 12 and thoughts have already changed for the 2021 models. The news about this year’s devices is that they will look like last year’s and maintain the same screen sizes. This means that we should see a 5.4 inch iPhone 13 mini, a 6.1 inch iPhone 13, a 6.1 inch iPhone 13 Pro and a 6.7 inch iPhone 13 Pro Max. Apple will halt production of the iPhone 12 mini due to lower than expected demand. During the first half of January, the mini accounted for only 5% of the iPhone 12 series sales. On the other hand, it is rumored that the production of the iPhone 12 Pro Max will increase 11 million units.
Although they may look the same compared to the 2020 line, there will be some differences. For example, Pro models can be equipped with a 120 Hz refresh rate that refreshes the screen 120 times per second, resulting in smooth scrolling and enhanced animation. This ProMotion screen is already offered on the iPad Pro. Using a low temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) rear panel, the refresh rate may vary depending on the content on the screen. Video games, for example, would guarantee the use of 120 Hz, while more static content would run at a slower refresh rate to save battery power. The use of LTPO may also allow Apple to offer an always-on display.
Rendering of the Apple iPhone 13 Pro with a 6.1-inch screen
Apple is expected to improve the camera set on some models and can even bring astrophotography to those phones; this will allow iPhone 13 users to take pictures of the night sky. Another new feature for iPhone photographers could be video in portrait mode, allowing users to change the depth field in post-processing. Ultra-Wide cameras across the range will be enhanced, according to the latest rumors, moving from 5-element lenses to 6-element lenses.
The 5nm A15 Bionic chipset will power the line, and we can see stronger magnets inside the devices for MagSafe accessories. This could be part of an emphasis on wireless charging from MagSafe because at least one of the new models (probably the iPhone 13 Pro Max) will be completely portless. The iPhone 13 series will come out of the box with iOS 15 pre-installed.
Rendering showing the back of an iPhone 13 Pro
LetsGoDigital recently launched renderings of an iPhone 13 Pro and the screen shows a version on the Touch ID display along with Face ID. Speaking of the latter, the notch is also smaller in width. Many iPhone users have asked Apple to bring the Touch ID back and it looks like their wish will be granted. At the same time, fans of Facial ID will also be happy.
The iPhone 13 series will have support for 5G and should be launched next September.