iPhone 12 Side Becomes Flat... Smaller HomePod and AirTag Also Released
Flat sides like iPad Pro and iPhone 5 with stainless steel applied
Notch size reduced and LiDAR scanner expected on rear camera
New HomePod halved in size and AirTag for loss prevention likely released within the year
[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] Apple is expected to adopt a flat side design for the 'iPhone 12' series set to be released this year, similar to the iPhone 5 and iPad Pro. Apple is also preparing to launch a smaller 'HomePod' and a loss-prevention device called 'AirTag.'
According to Bloomberg and others on the 13th (local time), some models of the iPhone 12, scheduled for release in the second half of this year, will feature flat sides and a stainless steel frame. Apple plans to release a total of four models in the second half of the year: a 5.4-inch model, two 6.1-inch models, and a 6.7-inch model. This design is expected to be applied to the higher-end models, the iPhone 12 Pro (6.1 inches) and the iPhone 12 Pro Max (6.7 inches). With the sides becoming flat like the iPhone 5, the design is likely to resemble the 2018 iPad Pro.
Bloomberg stated, "Some of the 5G iPhones launching in 2020 will have flat sides with stainless steel materials. Some models may be released a few weeks later than autumn. Apple engineers are expected to visit China in May to finalize the product design."
Changes are also expected in the notch design on the front camera area of the iPhone. The notch for Face ID is anticipated to shrink to one-third or half the size compared to the previous model. Apple is exploring ways to completely eliminate the notch, but it will remain on the iPhones released this year, and more time will be needed before it disappears entirely.
The rear cameras of the top two iPhone 12 models are expected to include a 'LiDAR scanner.' This is anticipated to further expand augmented reality (AR) services. The 2020 iPad also featured a LiDAR scanner. It is widely expected that the iPhone 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max will have a triple camera setup with a LiDAR scanner. The LiDAR scanner is a technology that measures distance by calculating the time it takes for light to hit an object and return. With a LiDAR scanner, it is possible to measure the distance to objects within 5 meters.
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Apple is also developing a smaller and more affordable artificial intelligence (AI) speaker, the 'HomePod,' which is expected to be released as early as this year. It is likely to be about half the size of the existing HomePod. Alongside this, a loss-prevention device called 'AirTag,' which uses location tracking technology, is also expected to be released within the year. Bloomberg predicts that AirTag will be launched together with keychains and leather sleeves.
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