A few minutes after the iPhone 15 launch, reports about the coming models like the iPhone 16, and developments that could reach production in a few years, are doing rounds on the internet. The iPhone maker plans to integrate AI-based features into its voice assistant, for which it needs to improve the microphone hardware. Further, the company is also exploring under-display camera options. Here’s what Apple is planning for its future iPhones.
iPhone 16 To Feature Improved Microphone For A Better Siri Experience
In a blog post, a renowned Apple analyst claims that all iPhone 16 models will come with a significantly upgraded microphone system. In addition to better water resistance, the microphones will feature an improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which measures signal with respect to the background noise. This should improve the overall Siri experience, as the microphones should be able to detect users saying “Siri” better.
For those catching up, Apple plans to integrate AI in the upcoming iPhones, and Siri, the voice assistant, should benefit from this. Per Kuo, “voice input will be the key interface for AI/AIGC/LLM on mobile smartphones, so strengthening Siri’s hardware and software features and specifications” is the only way Apple can pull this off.
The New Microphone Increases The Cost Of Manufacturing
The improved microphone sensor should come at a higher cost, though. Kuo mentions that the average selling price of the enhanced microphone for the iPhone 16 should be at least 100-150 percent higher than that of the iPhone 15. Although this will benefit AAC and Goertek, the microphone suppliers for Apple, this might contribute to a higher overall cost for the iPhone 16 variants.
Apple Is Exploring Under-Display Cameras For Future iPhones
Per another report by The Elec, LG Innotek is developing an under-panel camera (UPC) system for the iPhones introduced until after 2026. We’ve already seen under-display cameras on a couple of smartphones, including Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. However, the technology has a major problem; it doesn’t let enough light pass through the camera opening (doubles as the screen when needed). This, in turn, leads to poor-quality images.
To overcome the issue, LG Innotek has implemented a solution that uses “freeform optic” technology. In a patent, the company mentions that using a freeform lens can reduce the loss of information by increasing the light ratio around the camera sensor. While UPC should make its way to production units after 2026, the Cupertino-based tech giant is also exploring under-display Face ID, where the sensor opening acts as a regular display when not in use.
Meanwhile, Tata Group Is Planning To Strengthen Indian Production
In a related development, the Tata Group plans to expand iPhone production in India by constructing one of the largest assembly plants. Per a report by Bloomberg, the company could establish the facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, with 20 assembly lines and a workforce of 50,000 people. The report also mentions that the facility may be operational between a year and 18 months, i.e., by mid-2025.
In the past, Apple has explored its options for reallocating resources out of China. It has also affirmed the scope of production in India, expressing interest in shifting a major production lineup to the country. Hence, Tata’s decision to expand the production aligns with the iPhone maker’s global strategy.
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