Although we are probably at least six months away from Apple’s launch of the so-called iPhone 13 line, rumors about devices are starting to accumulate, so we have finalized this recap of everything that is expected so far.
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The next iPhone 13 range will consist of the same four models and screen sizes as the iPhone 12 range, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who suggests there will be a 5.4-inch iPhone 13 mini, a 6-inch iPhone 13, 1 inch, 6.1 inch iPhone 13 Pro and 6.7 inch iPhone 13 Pro Max. These names are simply substitutes, as Apple could definitely decide to use the branded iPhone 12 or a completely different name.
Key features expected for all four iPhone 13 models:
- A15 chip: A faster system on a chip in the next iPhones is a virtual guarantee, the iPhone 13 programming will be equipped with an A15 chip designed by Apple, manufactured by TSMC based on its 5nm + process.
- Smaller notch: The notch that houses the front camera and Face ID components will be reduced in size on iPhone 13 models, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Apple has done this by integrating different Face ID sensors into a single module, according to the Taiwanese publication DigiTimes.
- Larger batteries: IPhone 13 models will have higher battery capacities than iPhone 12 models, thanks to design options that save space inside future devices, such as a SIM card slot integrated on the logic board, according to Kuo. As a result, the iPhone 13 is expected to be a little heavier.
- Sensor-shift camera stabilization: Apple plans to extend image stabilization by changing the sensor to all iPhone 13 models, according to Kuo and DigiTimes. This probably means that the Wide lens of the iPhone 12 Pro Max with shift sensor will be extended to the entire range of iPhone 13. The technology stabilizes the camera sensor instead of the lens for even greater image stabilization and improved photo quality.
- 5G enhancements: The iPhone 13 models will be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X60 modem, according to Kuo and DigiTimes. Built on a 5nm process, the X60 offers higher energy efficiency in a smaller footprint compared to the 7nm-based Snapdragon X55 modem used in iPhone 12 models, which could contribute to longer battery life. With the X60 modem, iPhone 13 models could also simultaneously collect 5G data from both the mmWave and sub-6GHz bands to achieve an optimal combination of high-speed, low-latency network coverage.
- Wi-Fi 6E: The iPhone 13 models will be the first to accept Wi-Fi 6E, according to Barclays analysts Blayne Curtis and Thomas O’Malley. Wi-Fi 6E offers Wi-Fi 6 features and capabilities, including higher performance, lower latency, and faster data rates in the extended 6 GHz band. The extra spectrum will provide much more airspace beyond existing Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, resulting in increased bandwidth and less interference for devices that support Wi-Fi 6E.
- Lightning connector: Despite earlier predictions that Apple will launch a high-end iPhone without a Lightning connector in 2021, Kuo recently said there will be “no portless design” this year. Kuo expects iPhones to continue to use the Apple Lightning connector for the “foreseeable future.”
- mmWave expansion: A vendor-focused report from Daily economic news suggested that iPhone 13 models could accept ultra-fast mmWave 5G in other countries outside the United States.
The new features are expected to be exclusive to the two iPhone 13 Pro models:
- 120Hz display: The iPhone 13 Pro models will be equipped with low-power LTPO displays with support for a 120Hz refresh rate, according to Kuo, display industry analyst Ross Young and speakers such as Max Weinbach and Jon Prosser. A refresh rate of 120Hz would result in a smoother or more “buttery” content and scrolling. Like the iPad Pro 2017 and newer, the iPhone 13 Pro models will probably have an energy-saving “ProMotion” feature, with a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz.
- Ultra Wide lens enhancements: The iPhone 13 Pro models will have an updated Ultra Wide camera lens with a higher ƒ / 1.8 aperture and autofocus, compared to ƒ / 2.4 and fixed focus on the iPhone 12 models, according to analysts Barclays and Kuo. The Ultra Wide lens will also gain stabilization of the sensor change, accordingly DigiTimes.
Apple usually announces its new iPhone line in September, but the iPhone 12 line was unveiled in October, a delay attributed to the pandemic. Mark the regularly updated iPhone 13 summary linked below to follow the latest rumors.