iPhone 11 Release Date Could Include Two OLED Models, One LCD

The iPhone 2018 models could feature 5.8-inch, 6.1-inch, and 6.5-inch displays if recent reports are to be believed. KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims Apple may fashion its next three iPhones after the iPhone X with an edge-to-edge design, no home button, and the infamous top notch. However, Kuo expects the 5.8-inch and 6.5-inch models to feature OLED displays, while the 6.1-inch model may feature an LCD display.

If true Apple may use the device’s displays to differentiate between high-end and mid-range models. Kuo’s report detailed that the 6.1-inch LCD model may feature a lower pixel density, between 320 and 330 ppi. Apple may set the device up to be the cheapest of the lineup, with a price between $649-749. Meanwhile, the 5.8-inch OLED model may mirror the current iPhone X with a 458 ppi pixel density. The 6.5-inch OLED model may feature a pixel density between 480 to 500 ppi, making it the highest-end model. There are no prospective price details for the 5.8-inch or 6.5-inch models.

Two new OLED models target high-end market; new TFT-LCD model aims at low-end & midrange markets: We believe the major hardware difference in the two new OLED models is size, in a bid to satisfy various needs of the high-end market. The new TFT-LCD model will differ significantly from the OLED models in hardware and design specs (for instance, the PPI will be lower). The primary selling points of the TFT-LCD model may be the innovative user experience of an integrated full-screen design and 3D sensing with a lower price tag (we expect it will likely be US$649-749).

- ​Ming-Chi Kuo, KGI Securities

There are a few rumors already circulating for the iPhone 2018 models, despite the iPhone X still being new to the market. Prior rumors have already suggested a 6.46-inch model. Other prospective features include a faster processor, more AI features and and camera upgrades. Apple has not yet confirmed any details about future iPhones at this time.

With Apple releasing the iPhone X alongside the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus in 2017, there are already questions about what the company will call the iPhone 2018 models. Many have already taken to referring to devices as the iPhone 11, but it is likely the future iPhone names will be shrouded in mystery for some time. Some analysts have suggested that Apple may simplify its naming scheme by giving devices names, such as “iPhone Pro” or “iPhone Plus,” while others suggest the iPhone X could be a break in the sequence and Apple may introduce something completely new.

Consumers have seen Apple do this with its MacOS naming sequence. After several years of worry that the company would run out of wild cats, after which to name its software, Apple switched to naming MacOS after California landmarks.