Expect 256GB 'iPhone 7' and A11-Equipped 2017 iPhone Handsets
Today brings two interesting pieces of iPhone-related news: first, this year's iPhone handset, the “iPhone 7,” is expected to offer users a 256GB storage option; second, next year's iPhone handsets should feature an Apple A11 processor, the orders for which have already reached Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).
In today's age, a 16GB iPhone simply doesn't offer enough space.
DigiTimes has the scoop concerning a 256GB iPhone 7, and explains in a recently published story that NAND flash vendors are raising quotes on orders amid tight supply. “Strong demand for new smartphones” is apparently facing suppliers, “particularly the iPhone 7 featuring up to 256GB of storage,” the article notes, and prices are apparently set to continue soaring until the fourth quarter of 2016.
Nevertheless, NAND flash prices could start falling in the first quarter of 2017 if sales of the new iPhone disappoint, the sources warned.
Apple has a big part to play in this industry, and the article adds that Apple's purchases “remain critical to the overall consumption of NAND flash.” The iPhone 6 and 6s series, for instance, “consumed about 15 percent of overall NAND supply in 2016.”
Apple is thought to be making 32GB the new storage minimum for its iPhone handsets with the iPhone 7, as is the case with its iPad line.
AppleInsider also notes that Apple is beginning to place orders for its 2017 iPhone, too, be it the “iPhone 7s” or some other device. Citing another DigiTimes report, the publication explained that TSMC “will be manufacturing Apple-designed OLED driver circuitry for the 2017 iPhones as well.” This makes sense, especially since Apple is expected to offer an OLED-equipped iPhone handset in 2017, potentially to coincide with the tenth anniversary of the original iPhone.
TSMC will also be producing an A11 processor for next year's iPhone, and the company has already received orders from Apple.
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