iPhone 7. Coming in 2016
Apple plans to release its next-generation iPhone in the fall of 2016, and with a launch date fast approaching, details about the new device have been leaking out at a rapid pace. As with most iPhone launches, we've seen a slew of rumors that have given us a solid look at what we can expect to see when Apple unveils its new iPhone in September.
Of course, as with any rumor cycle, we have seen some conflicting information, so there will still be an element of surprise when Apple CEO Tim Cook and other Apple executives debut the 2016 iPhone.
Since the 3GS launched in 2009, Apple has used an alternating "S" naming formula to mark years where the iPhone does not receive a major redesign, saving its numbered upgrades for years where design changes are introduced. Releases have been as follows:
2007 - iPhone
2008 - iPhone 3G
2009 - iPhone 3GS
2010 - iPhone 4 (new design)
2011 - iPhone 4s
2012 - iPhone 5 (new design)
2013 - iPhone 5s
2014 - iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus (new design)
2015 - iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus
The next-generation iPhone is expected to be called the iPhone 7 and since we are expecting Apple to continue offering two versions of the iPhone -- with 5.5 and 4.7-inch displays -- we will also see an iPhone 7 Plus. There have been some rumors suggesting Apple could alter its standard numbered naming convention, instead calling at least one model of the 2016 iPhone the "iPhone Pro," but it is unclear at this point if those rumors are accurate.
Because 2015 marked an "S" iPhone upgrade year that introduced new features such as an improved camera and a better processor, 2016 will bring an even-year upgrade that will include a new iPhone design in addition to new features.
Every rumor we've heard about the iPhone 7's look suggests it will be a modest update that continues to use a design similar to the design of the iPhone 6s. It is said to have the same general shape as the iPhone 6s, but it may have a camera that protrudes less (though rumors currently disagree on this point). Antenna bands across the back of the device have been removed, but are expected to remain at the top, bottom, and sides of the iPhone. The front of the iPhone is also expected to see some changes with a longer earpiece cutout, a relocated ambient light sensor, and a flush pressure-sensitive home button that incorporates haptic feedback.
Mockup of iPhone 7 case showing possible flush rear camera and no antenna bands across rear.
Some rumors suggest Apple is aiming to make the iPhone 7 up to 1mm thinner, perhaps through the removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack and the implementation of a thinner Lightning port, but other rumors suggest the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus will have a body that is the same thickness as the iPhone 6s.
With no headphone jack, wired headphones will connect to the iPhone 7 using its Lightning port and Bluetooth headphones will connect wirelessly. Apple is rumored to be working on Lightning-equipped EarPods to sell alongside the iPhone 7. The removal of the headphone jack may also improve water resistance and it will leave room for a second speaker.
Blueprints and an image of a device said to be the iPhone 7 Plus have surfaced depicting a Smart Connector on the back of the shell, suggesting that is another potential feature, but it is not yet clear what it would be used for and other rumors have said it will not be included. If the Smart Connector rumors are accurate, it appears it will be a feature limited to the larger-screened model.