Could the 'iPhone 7' feature a Smart Connector?
We could be getting our first clear look at the “iPhone 7.” A new image first published by Chinese site Bastille Post purportedly shows the rear case of the rumored handset.
Get smart?
A purported image of the handset.
The biggest surprise is the possible inclusion of a Smart Connector. That’s indicated by the three small dots near the bottom of the handset.
Apple first introduced the Smart Connector with the iPad Pro. It is designed to provide both power and connection to accessories. So far, only two add-on keyboards for the tablet use the connector.
A rumored new version of the Pro tablet, featuring a smaller 9.7-inch screen, is also believed to offer the connector. That device is expected to be introduced at Apple’s special media event next week on Monday, March 21.
It’s unknown how Apple would utilize a Smart Connector on the smaller iPhone.
Currently, the Smart Connector is used by two add-on keyboards for the iPad Pro, including Apple's own version.
A closer look
The image also shows what appears to be a dual-lens camera setup.
Rumored to appear in only the larger “iPhone 7 Plus,” the system could possibly feature some type of optical zoom. One lens could support a wide field of view while the other might feature telephoto technology. Independent images are captured from both lenses which are then combined into a single photo using special algorithms.
As you can see, as previously rumored, the rear antenna bands have been moved to the very top and bottom of the case.
Other possible new features
Even though the new image doesn’t show the bottom of the handset, Apple is planning to drop the ubiquitous 3.5mm headphone jack and require Lightning or Bluetooth headphones.
Other reports have also indicated that the devices will be both dustproof and waterproof. The larger “iPhone 7 Plus” might also be offered with a 256GB storage option – double the current 128GB edition.
Apple is expected to officially unveil the handset sometime this fall.
