There are rumors that the Apple iPhone 8 will feature an OLED panel when it launches in 2017. Apple may be working with Sharp and another firm to come up with the new iPhone 8 screens, and other advanced technologies.
GSM Arena reported that analysts discovered an Apple purchase order, lasting over one year and costing about $4 billion, which may potentially be a long term OLED sourcing contract to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the iPhone in 2017. Sharp may supply the component for the iPhone 8.
There are also rumors that the Apple iPhone 8 will continue offering the LTPS panel together with the new OLED displays. There may be three variants of the iPhone 8, with two maintaining the LTPS displays, at 4.7 and 5 inches, and the third with the new curved OLED screen.
BGR stated that the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus may showcase a new design with a glass front and back, linked by metal around the edges. The OLED display may occupy most of the face of the iPhone 8, after the home button will be removed.
There may be a next-generation Touch ID fingerprint scanner positioned under the display on the iPhone 8 as well. Users can rely on 3D Touch gestures instead of the home button's traditional functions. The iPhone 8 is also expected to feature improved cameras, a new A11 Fusion processor and wireless charging technology.
Apple may also be working with Energous to allow fast wireless charging. Previously, Energous hinted that it will be working with a top smartphone maker, which many believed was the Cupertino-based company.
The process will involve installing a small chip on the main board of the iPhone 8 that will link wirelessly to a base station, thereby charging the battery at a distance of about 15 feet. This means that users can continue charging their iPhone 8 without having to put it in a docking station.
Apple, Sharp and Energous have yet to confirm their potential partnerships. Following its previous pattern, Apple may launch the iPhone 8 in fall 2017. More updates and details on the smartphone are expected soon.