A research note by Apple analyst Ming-Chi-Kuo claims that Apple will be unveiling a redesigned iPhone next year, which will boast a new metal frame structure similar to that of the iPhone 4s, first released back in 2010.
First spotted on MacRumors, Kuo says Apple is in the process of redesigning the chassis of its 2020 flagship devices quite significantly, moving away from the current curved stainless sides of the most recent iPhones.
“The metal frame and the front and rear 2/2.5D glass are still used, but the metal frame surface will be changed to a similar design to the iPhone 4, replacing the current surface design,” Kuo said.
“The new devices will feature a new metal frame with a more complex segmentation design, new trenching and injection moulding procedures, and sapphire or glass cover assembly to protect the trench injection moulding structure.”
On top of the bulkier, boxier look, the new 2020 lineup is expected to feature only OLED screens, as opposed to having the two-OLED and one-LCD setup found in the current iPhone 11 range.
The upcoming line of iPhones is also expected to come with 5G-support, which is something Apple has been working on for quite some time now.
Apple is currently falling behind in this space compared to other smartphone manufacturers who already have 5G-ready devices in the market.
