The “iPhone 13” is expected to launch in late 2021 and is expected to have big changes to the camera system and display. Rumours suggest Apple may implement a 120Hz display, always-on UI elements, and ProRes video recording. The Lightning port will likely remain, but improvements to MagSafe could signal the beginning of the end for the port.
The most noticeable physical changes to the device could be the camera bump and notch. The camera bump is expected to change from separate bumps for each lens to a single sheet of glass covering all lenses. This would reduce wobble when laying the device flat on its back.
The notch is expected to be reduced or eliminated. One portion of the sensor array that could be reduced is the VCSEL chip used for blasting infrared dots used in 3D scanning. Apple may reduce this component by as much as 50%, allowing for a smaller notch.
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Apple has been investigating methods to hide certain elements of the Face ID TrueDepth system behind the display. Some Android manufacturers have managed to hide selfie cameras behind the display, but the TrueDepth system is much more complex.
Apple may be able to hide the selfie camera and a few other sensors in the “iPhone 13” by placing them under the display or raising them into the bezel. Either possibility would yield a smaller notch. It is highly unlikely the notch will be eliminated anytime soon.
Some reports suggest that the camera bump will change the thickness in all models, making the camera lenses protrude less overall.
As with the design changes, a camera change usually occurs on a longer cycle. The iPhone 12 Pro has a similar three-camera system as the iPhone 11 Pro, but with an additional sensor for LiDAR. This camera design is said to be carried over to the 2021 Pro lineup as well.
All dummy models and leaked schematics show a three-camera array with much larger lenses than the current generation. Many case manufacturers get dimensions sent to them early to start production on cases, but these numbers can’t always be relied upon as accurate.
Some sources say that LiDAR may come to all future iPhone models, rather than being reserved for the Pros. This aligns with Apple’s push to make AR experiences better for all users.
The iPhone could gain a ProMotion display in 2021 to optimize viewing content but may necessitate the use of LTPO technology to keep the battery life under control. Samsung has used similar techniques to push its display refresh rate up to 120Hz as well.
It is claimed that Apple wants both Pro models to have 120Hz refresh rates, but they must be variable to prevent inadvertent battery drain. This would be accomplished by using LTPO backplanes.
A report says that LG has been tapped to produce the needed LTPO displays for the “iPhone 13” which would go into production in mid-2021. A different report suggests Samsung might be the sole provider of LTPO displays for Apple due to their history of providing quality displays.
In April, industry watchers reported that LG and Samsung had begun converting iPhone display manufacturing to the LTPO displays needed for 120Hz. Mass production of devices begin in the summer, so component prep at this stage seems natural.
Rumours also indicate that Apple could be working on a direct-to-satellite connection. While this feature may not make it for the 2021 models, eventually the iPhone could make satellite calls in emergencies.
Apple is expected to announce the “iPhone 13” in September. Rumours suggest it could be announced on September 14 and release by September 24.
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