iPhone 8 Rumors: New iPhone Could Start At 64GB, Eliminate 32GB Model

The latest rumors surrounding Apple’s upcoming iPhone 8 have moved from the smartphone’s appearance to its internal specifications. The premium iPhone 8 will potentially only be available in 64GB and 256GB models, according to a report from AppleInsider.

The rumored move would be a notable trimming for the number of storage options for the iPhone. Currently, the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus is sold in 32GB, 128GB or 256GB models and the series is also the first that dropped 16GB variants. The entry-level iPhone SE is now the only Apple lineup that comes in 16GB models.

The iPhone 8 is slated to be one of three iPhones Apple will release this year, with the other models being an iPhone 7S and iPhone 7S Plus. Unlike the iPhone 8, both 7S variants are expected to have a 32GB configuration available.

With the reemergence of unlimited data plans from U.S. mobile carriers, smartphone storage options aren’t necessarily as important as they were before. Instead of having to store images or songs locally, it’s now far easier and less costly to stream them via cellular data.

Still, the rumored move fits with Apple’s teased ambitions for the new iPhone 8. As AppleInsider notes, the move is intended to further separate the iPhone 8 as a higher-end option versus other iPhones.

With possible features like wireless charging, a larger screen and facial recognition, Apple wants the phone to separate itself from competitors as a clear high-end and upscale option. With these features, streamlined storage options and a rumored price point of more than $1,000, Apple will likely hit these goals for the upcoming smartphone.

At the moment, Apple has yet to confirm an official release date for the new iPhone models and updates. But as with past iPhones, Apple is expected to release the iPhone 8 and 7S in its traditional September or early fall window. Assuming Apple maintains its standard release date period, the company will also likely have the time to itself. Competitors like the LG G6 and Samsung Galaxy Note 8 are slated to hit store shelves this spring.