Why Apple's 'iPhone 6' Could Be Even Thinner Than Previous Models
June 30, 2014
For the first time, Apple is using only one brightness enhancement film (BEC) in its backlit LCD display on the “iPhone 6.” This will allow the handset to be even thinner than previous models. Unfortunately, the move could also lead to early supply issues, according to China Times (via G for Games).
Enhancement film
The report notes:
Until now Apple and Miebea (the supplier) have used two BEFs, and delivering a new backlight with just a single brightness enhancement film can allegedly cause yield issues. To our understanding, the reason why a single BEF could cause yield issues is because the remaining layer needs to be better enough to get the job done by itself. As for the alleged yield problems, these reports suggest that some of Minebea’s backlight orders will be taken over by OMRON and Radiant.The same source says Apple will begin production on the next iPhone in July, with a September release likely. This has been a busy few days for iPhone 6 news. Last week, a source said that Apple would release its new smartphone on Friday, Sept. 19. Another source made this same prediction in May. We also learned that the long-rumored 5.5-inch iPhone 6 model might include features not found on the 4.7-inch model. This may include a sapphire crystal display, a camera with optical image stabilization, and one variant with 128GB of internal storage. Apple launched the first iPhone seven years ago, on June 29, 2007. See also: A New Video Shows Apple's iOS 8 Running On An 'iPhone 6,' and Report: Don't Believe Everything You've Seen On The Many 'iPhone 6' Mockups.
