iPhone 7s Plus Image Reveals Design Tweaks for Wireless Charging

Images of an alleged iPhone 7s Plus dummy unit surfaced over the weekend showing a slightly-modified iPhone 7-like model incorporating a shiny, glass back panel in place of aluminum-alloy. If indeed they are authentic, the candid shots would lend further credence to earlier reports claiming that all of Apple’s 2017 iPhone models will feature wireless inductive charging capabilities.

The images were posted to the official Twitter account of serial-leaker, Sonny Dickson, and most noticeably flaunt the shiny glass rear panel, which will functionally facilitate wireless charging whereas aluminum-alloy would prevent it. Interestingly, the model shown appears to do away with the external antenna band network of iPhone models past, as well, and appears to incorporate a slightly thicker, mirrored frame around the perimeter.

It was suggested earlier this year by the CEO of Wistron Corp., one of Apple’s Taiwanese iPhone assembly partners, that at least the iPhone 7s Plus would feature wireless inductive charging capabilities — although the feature was previously rumored to be an iPhone 8 exclusive. Wireless charging will essentially allow users to charge at least their iPhone 7s Plus and iPhone 8 models by simply placing them on top of a compatible inductive charging pad, from where it can be easily retrieved and replaced without fumbling around with a traditional Lightning/USB cable. Apple is expected to offer its own charging pad as an accessory for the iPhone models, and should go on sale sometime after they’re released and the feature is enabled this fall.

All three new iPhone models are expected to be showcased at a special media event this September, which could be held at the company’s new Apple Park headquarters in Cupertino, California. The iPhone 8, which could also be dubbed iPhone X or iPhone Edition, will undoubtedly be the star of the show with its all-new design and impressive features like an edge-to-edge OLED display, advanced 3D optics and powerful internals. Apple will also be taking the wraps off new iPhone 7s models — and though they’ll retain the same 4.7- and 5.5-inch LCDs as their predecessors — the refreshed handsets will boast their own array of next-generation enhancements like a powerful A11 SoC, True Tone display technology, upgraded cameras, and apparently wireless charging. While the iPhone 7s and 7s Plus should be available shortly after their unveiling, the high-end iPhone 8 is expected to be delayed by up to a few months due to manufacturing hold-ups.

[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Provided details may not be factual. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]