10+ New Features and Changes Coming to the iPhone 13 Lineup
Credit: EveryThingApplePro
Apple's iPhone 13 is looming large on the horizon. The next-generation iPhone is expected to land this fall, bringing with it a handful of changes to the world's most popular smartphone. Some of these changes are new features coming to the platform, while others were expected in the iPhone 12 but pushed off for a year. Continue reading to browse the features and design changes that we predict Apple will make in the iPhone 13.
LiDAR Sensors and Camera Design
Each year Apple makes minor improvements to the camera system in the iPhone 13. This year, Apple may roll out the LiDAR sensor to all of the iPhone 13 models. Currently, this AR/VR sensor is found only in the Pro models of the iPhone 12.
A recent rendering from MySmartPrice shows a new physical arrangement for the cameras on the iPhone 13. Instead of stacking the camera lenses vertically on top of each other, the iPhone 13 rendering suggests the cameras may be placed diagonally.
We don't know why Apple would change the orientation of the cameras. The company typically only makes incremental changes to the iPhone's camera technology and does not overhaul the system so much that it requires a redesign.
In-Display Touch ID
Apple is rumored to be adding both Touch ID and Face ID to the iPhone 13. Instead of the traditional Home button, Apple may be adding a fingerprint sensor into the display. iPhone 13 owners could choose either in-display touch or facial biometric authentication. If that doesn't pan out, Touch ID could be added to the lock button.
120Hz ProMotion Display
Apple last year was rumored to be working on a 120Hz ProMotion LTPO display for use in the iPhone 12. These plans fell through, and now this technology may land in the iPhone 13. Not only does a 120Hz display look better, but it also is more power-efficient. This low power usage would improve battery life and could open the door for an always-on display in the iPhone. Apple already offers an always-on display in its Apple Watch and could scale this technology for the larger iPhone display.
Smaller Notch
A smaller notch has been rumored for years, but 2021 may be the first time we actually see it. According to Japanese site Mac Otakara, Apple may be shrinking the front TrueDepth camera allowing Apple to lessen the notch's footprint.
A15 Chip
Each year, Apple bumps up the speed and efficiency of its mobile processors. This year is no exception, with the iPhone 13 rumored to be shipping with a 5nm A15 chipset produced by long-term supplier TSMC. Specific details on the chipset and its performance are unknown, but we expect it to bring faster performance and improved power efficiency.
Better Battery Life
Apple may boost battery life by increasing the size of the batteries in the iPhone 13. A supposed internal redesign may provide the extra space needed for a larger battery. The A15 chip also may boost battery life with a 15 to 20 percent decrease in power consumption.
1TB of Storage
Rumors hint Apple may boost internal storage to 1TB, up from the 512GB in the iPhone 12, as supported in iOS 15.
Improved 5G, Wi-Fi 6E
Qualcomm last year debuted the new Snapdragon X60 third-generation 5G modem, which may land in Apple's 2021 iPhone lineup. This chipset is smaller than previous generations and more power-efficient. Apple's iPhone 13 models will continue to support 5G either in a multi-band mode or a single band configuration for those areas that don't have the faster mmWave or sub-6GHz networks. It also may support Wi-Fi 6E, which is faster than the existing 2.4 and 5 GHz bands.
USB-C? Not Likely
Apple may have shifted to USB-C for its MacBooks and iPad Pro models, but it won't change the iPhone 13. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will keep the Lightning cable for the iPhone 13. Kuo claims Apple won't move to USB-C because it is an open standard and less waterproof than Lightning.
Larger Displays? Also Not Likely
The iPhone 13 lineup is expected to mirror the iPhone 12 with four devices spanning various sizes and price points. Like the iPhone 12, the iPhone 13 may be available in 5.4-inches, 6.1-inches, and 6.7-inch sizes. It also will include two high-end Pro models and two entry-level iPhone 13 models.