Apple supply chain spills beans on 2018 iPhone upgrades

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iphone x
iPhone X Plus could be one of three new handsets launching this year.
Photo: Ste Smith/Cult of Mac

Sources in Apple’s supply chain have spilled the beans on the company’s iPhone upgrade plans for 2018.

Corroborating claims from one reliable analyst, a new report reveals we will see three new iPhone models this year — each with a different display.

iPhone X is Apple’s most exciting refresh in years, laying new foundations for the future of iPhone. But thanks to its hefty price tag, demand has been weaker than expected, according to recent reports. Apple hopes to change that with greater choice in 2018.

Apple will launch three iPhones in 2018

Alongside a refreshed iPhone X with a 5.8-inch OLED display, Apple will launch a larger handset — already dubbed iPhone X Plus — with a 6.5-inch OLED display, reports China Times. It will also offer a more affordable option with a 6.1-inch LCD display.

It is thought all three devices will sport the same design as iPhone X, with edge-to-edge displays that leave no room for a physical Home button. The sources claim that all three with also feature Face ID — even the cheapest model.

Japan Display is said to be the primary supplier of 18:9 LCD screens for this device, with LG Display helping meet Apple’s large orders. LG is also expected to manufacture OLED displays for the much-anticipated iPhone X Plus.

iPhone X production will be cut short

This report follows similar claims from reliable KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who expects Apple to cease production of the current iPhone X in mid-2018 to make way for its successors. Kuo also slashed his iPhone shipment forecast as a result of weak demand.

Kuo has confidence in iPhone X Plus, however, and believes the device will boost Apple’s total iPhone shipments by 10 percent for 2018. It’s likely the trio of new devices will be unveiled this fall, around iPhone 8’s first anniversary.

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