The iPhone 5 Features Page Is Back!
Back by popular demand, the iPhone 5 Features page is our very informal way of giving you a quick list of all the rumored features floating around the blogosphere and tech media regarding the iPhone 5. As always, this list of features is completely speculative, since Apple never gives us any concrete information about future product releases. However, every once in a while, one of Apple’s components manufacturers slip up, and their gaffes sometimes give up a heads-up on what to expect with the new iPhone.
You can rest assured that the iPhone 5 News Blog will keep our ear to the ground for any new iPhone 5 Features rumors. In the meantime, these are the features that are being talked about thus far:
“iPhone 5:”
Yes — we’re going there. This year, the name of the iPhone will be one of its top features. There is so much buzz surrounding the “iPhone 5″ keyword that Cupertino’s magical marketing department would be hard pressed not to leverage it with the 2012 iPhone release. I know, I know — this year’s iPhone will be the sixth-generation iPhone, and therefore should be called “iPhone 6.” Or maybe you’re one of those people who think it will be called “iPhone 4G” or “iPhone 4GS” in honor of it being the first 4G LTE iPhone. But the safe money is on “iPhone 5.” (Probability: 9 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 9 out of 10)
New Form Factor:
Given the fact that the iPhone 4S utilized the iPhone 4′s form factor, you can rest assured that Apple will be redesigning the iPhone 5′s form factor. There has been a lot of conjecture over whether or not the new form factor will return to some of the design features of the iPhone 3G/3GS, retain the boxier lines of the iPhone 4, or go in a new direction that no one has yet to anticipate. Many had speculated in 2011 that the iPhone 5 would feature a teardrop-shaped design, but that rumor has faded quickly in 2012. The teardrop rumor has been replaced by a prevailing thought that the iPhone 5 form factor will be much thinner instead, a notion that concerns users about how a thinner form factor could affect the battery (see “Better Battery” below). Still, a new form factor is practically a given. (Probability: 9 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 9 out of 10)
Cut From a Single Piece of Metal:
It’s worth noting that there were some substantiated rumors about Apple creating a new iPhone form factor that is cut from a single piece of metal. apple’s relationship with LiquidMetal, a company that has developed a metal alloy that can be molded like plastic — together with an apple patent — would suggest that the technology exists to make this design concept a reality. However, there have been any reports out of Asia suggesting that iPhone 5 production will involve this sort of chassis. But when you consider the complexities of building an iPhone 5 form factor out of a single piece of metal, those components would most likely have to be made here in the U.S., anyway. (Probability: 3 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 10 out of 10)
Bigger Screen:
The issue of a larger screen is perhaps the most contentious in the iPhone 5 rumor mill. Because an increasing number of Android smartphones feature 4-inch+ displays, many iPhone users feel that the iPhone 5 will follow suit and expand the screen. This would obviously play a major role in the redesign of the form factor as well. But for as much as the public outcry seems to indicate that a larger screen is a must for the iPhone 5, there is a sense that Steve Jobs and his R&D crew at Cupertino felt quite comfortable with the overall size of the iPhone and its screen. It has remained the same through all of its iterations, after all. So, while a bigger screen may be imminent, Apple may choose to expand its dimensions only from 3.5 inches to 3.7 inches, and keep the overall dimensions of the iPhone 5 form factor the same as previous models. (Probability: 8 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 9 out of 10)
Edge-To-Edge Screen:
If Apple chooses to expand the size of the iPhone 5′s screen only marginally, opting to keep the overall dimensions of the iPhone intact, then an edge-to-edge screen could be Cupertino’s solution for expanding the screen from 3.5 inches to 3.7 inches. It would also lend a distinctive look to a new form factor (see above). (Probability: 7 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 9 out of 10)
Metal Back:
The metal back rumor was popular in 2011, and is still being discussed in 2012, with many tech analysts indicating that Apple will switch to either an aluminum or LiquidMetal alloy back, to replace the current glass back of the iPhone 4 and 4S. The reason for this move is twofold: for one, it would address some of the connectivity issues that plagued the iPhone 4 early on (though that issue has faded since the “antennagate” of the Summer of 2010). Second, a metal back would play a major role in developing a new aesthetic for the iPhone 5 form factor. Look for the iPhone 5 to bring together metal, glass, and plastic in a fundamentally new mix of design aesthetics. (Probability: 8 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 10 out of 10)
Gorilla Glass:
There is a bit of confusion over the “Gorilla Glass” rumor, since the current iPhone already uses a strong Corning-made Gorilla Glass. However, there are now stronger versions of Gorilla Glass available that would make the iPhone 5′s screen (and whatever else might be made of glass) virtually indestructible. There is a segment of the smartphone population that cares deeply about owning the most durable mobile devices possible, and for that reason Apple could very likely upgrade to an even more impressive version of Gorilla Glass. (Probability: 7 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 7 out of 10)
Elongated Home Button:
2011 saw the rise of the “elongated” or “multi-touch” home button, and a purported photo from Foxconn seemed to show racks of smartphone parts with elongated cut-outs for some kind of newfangled home button. The home button is a polemic issue with the iPhone, with some calling for its ouster, while others find it disconcerting to imagine the iPhone 5 without the familiar home button for navigating the interface. Many feel that the elongated home button could be Apple’s compromising, giving it more functionality and the ability for advanced navigation. (Probability: 6 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 7 out of 10)
Removed Home Button:
The removed home button is the more extreme rumor surrounding the home button issue for the iPhone 5. There are several Android smartphones that have no physical, manual home button — they either use an on-screen home button feature, or otherwise offer a touch surface home button. Many people feel like the idea of having fewer (or no) hardware buttons is a quintessentially Apple aesthetic, and that the iPhone 5′s overall design will be incredibly smooth and streamlined. A removed home button would certainly contribute to this concept, while the other rumors of a touch sensitive “smart bezel” (see below) could replace volume buttons as well. (Probability: 5 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 8 out of 10)
Smart Bezel:
The “smart bezel” rumor died out quickly in 2011 and has yet to resurface. But if you are a believer in the “Cut From a Single Piece of Metal” and/or “Removed Home Button” feature rumors, then the smart bezel has to be grouped in with those rumored features as well. The smart bezel concept involves creating a dynamic touch-sensitive strip along the sides of the screen, which could control volume and other functions usually handled by physical buttons. Imagining an iPhone with no hardware buttons, a smart bezel, and a touch surface home button would be a major departure from the current design. but if Apple opts to use an Edge-to-Edge screen (see above), the chances for a smart bezel are nil. (Probability: 3 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 8 out of 10)
4G LTE:
When the iPhone 4S was released in the Fall of 2011, a survey was conducted to determine which feature the most missed on the 4S. Surprisingly, 4G LTE was the most coveted feature. This consumer demand, coupled with the newfound investments by Sprint and Verizon to expand their 4G infrastructure, points to the likelihood that the iPhone 5 will be Apple’s first 4G LTE smartphone. And LTE will in turn lead to faster, more flexible user experience that will help to fuel new mobile computing technologies. 4G LTE could be such a big focus for the iPhone 5 that some believe Apple might name the 2012 iPhone the “iPhone 4G” (see above). Regardless, 4G LTE seems quite probably at this point. (Probability: 8 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 8 out of 10)
Improved Display:
Rumors about an improved display for the iPhone 5 have waned in recent months, but that doesn’t mean that Apple will not up the ante on resolution and display. We last reported on an exciting new technology called IGZO, which would seem to have a very good chance of finding its way onto the iPhone 5. IGZO essentially makes for a thinner, faster, more flexible display, all of which could be extremely weel-suited for an iPhone 5 with a thinner form factor (see “Form Factor” above). We’re also looking at the possibility of a Retina class display in the neighborhood of 2,048 x 1,536 pixels. (Probability: 6 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 8 out of 10)
Airbag:
While most of the 2011 iPhone 5 rumors are getting recycled this year, there are a few new rumors about features floating around, one of which is the “iPhone 5 airbag.” There is actually an Apple patent that indicates they have considered a design that would cause a mini airbag to inflate in the event of a catastrophic drop. This is one of the more zanier rumors I have heard, and it prompted me to write the tongue-in-cheek article, “Is That An iPhone In Your Pocket, Or Are you Just Happy To See Me?” But if you are a proponent of a more durable iPhone 5 (see the “Gorilla Glass” blurb above), then this rumored feature may not seem as zany to you. (Probability: 1 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 7 out of 10)
Better Battery:
Battery life has been a sore spot for iPhone 4S users, since Apple increased the demand on the battery with Siri, iOS 5, and the A5 chip, but didn’t really upgrade the battery from the original iPhone 4 design. As a result, iPhone users are definitely looking for a much better battery in the iPhone 5. Of course, there is some concern that a thinner iPhone 5 form factor (see “Form Factor” above) could make for a thinner and even more anemic rechargeable battery cell. The good news, however, is that Apple may have a new battery design in the works that manages a higher capacity while also sporting a thinner profile that can be designed around other components. In this way, the iPhone 5′s battery design could give it all the power it needs for a bigger display and new processor without sacrificing on the thinness of the new form factor. (Probability: 7 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 7 out of 10)
A6 Processor:
One of the really cool things about Apple is that they continue to innovate when it comes to processors. 2011 saw the release of the powerful A5 chip, which in most credible tests blew away the competition in terms of speed and processing power. While we’re all still getting used to the A5, however, it appears that the A6 is coming our way this year. The buzz phrases surrounding the possible architecture of the A6 are “quad core” and “3D.” Both technologies represent a monumental leap forward, even compared to the impressive dual-core A5. It is possible that Apple could reprise the role of the A5 in both the iPad 3 and iPhone 5 this year, but the rumors suggest that the A6 was close to being completed even back in the Summer of 2011, which would suggest it should be ready to go for both of Apple’s flagship mobile devices in 2012. (Probability: 8 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 9 out of 10)
NFC:
The idea of being able to use your iPhone to pay for items is one of the oldest rumors in the iPhone 5 rumor mill. The technology that will deliver this feature — Near Field Communication, or “NFC” — is already out there; several top-tier Android smartphones offer Google’s own mobile payment system. But Google has been slow to get NFC into the mainstream, and many people feel that the technology community is look to Apple to make NFC payments a reality. But Cupertino has its work cut out for them, since the issue of NFC is a complex one: security, ease of use, and mainstream adoption by retailers all has to be considered. In this way, yes, NFC technology is ready to go for the iPhone 5, but will Apple choose to open up that can of worms? Our feeling is that NFC is more likely to be a feature on the iPhone 6. (Probability: 2 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 7 out of 10)
Waterproof:
Yes, you’re reading that correctly: a handful of small companies have successfully created a publicity stunt for their new smartphone waterproofing sealants by suggesting Apple could adopt the technology for the iPhone 5. The process involves coating all of the internal parts with a completely waterproof coating that allow an iPhone to be dropped literally into a fish tank and continue to function. The waterproof iPhone 5 feature seems a bit too quirky for Apple to really invest in it, since the cost of adding it to the production model probably wouldn’t help them sell enough extra iPhone 5 units to substantiate it. But for people who fear that they will drop their iPhone into the toilet, it’s at least nice to know that there are companies out there that can waterproof it for you. (Probability: 2 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 7 out of 10)
Improved 8MP Sony Camera Sensor:
In addition to consistently upgrading its processors (see “A6″ above), Apple has also committed itself to advancing the camera technology of the iPhone, to the point where smartphones are now outpacing autofocus digital cameras as the cameras of choice for the average user. The iPhone 4S saw a significant jump up with its rear-facing 8MP camera sensor, as well as a robust software-side to processing and editing photos. But just like the processor, it looks as though Apple will outdo itself with new camera technology on the iPhone in 2012 as well. Sony’s new CMOS image sensor is much thinner than its current sensor used on the iPhone 4S, meaning that it will be well-placed on an iPhone 5 with a thinner form factor (see “Form Factor” above). The new CMOS image sensor appears to be one of the most reliable rumored features for the iPhone 5 at this juncture. (Probability: 8 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 8 out of 10)
Lytro Camera Sensor:
The Lytro camera sensor made headlines in the early part of 2012 when it came to light that Steve Jobs had met with them in the months before his death, picking their brains about the possibilities of someday developing Lytro for an iPhone. Lytro camera technology is right up Apple’s alley: the sensor takes in a great deal more light and information, allowing the user to edit and manipulate even a casual snapshot into a real masterpiece. There are, however, some issues with Lytro that will most likely disqualify it for the iPhone 5. First, it is incredibly bulky, and its design does not fit into the rumors of a thinner iPhone 5 form factor (see “Form Factor” above). Second, in spite of Lytro’s feature-rich ability to edit photos, its resolutions are nowhere close to current iPhone standards. Look for Lytro down the line — maybe on the iPhone 6. (Probability: 1 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 9 out of 10)
A Smarter Siri:
Siri is the crown jewel of the iPhone 4S, and in many ways, the voice technology technology holds a promising future for mobile computing. But for as much as Siri has been an exciting starting point for voice recognition and artificial intelligence, there are rumors that it is only the beginning, and that we could see a much more robust, intelligent “Assistant” replace Siri on the iPhone 5. there hasn’t been a great deal written about what the new Assistant could feature, other than a much improved intelligence for understanding users’ inquiries. Another possibility is that Assistant could have more widespread control over other aspects of a user’s life, such as trading stocks and managing finances, buying and paying for items (see “NFC” above), and other more sensitive, personal factors. (Probability: 5 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 8 out of 10)
iOS 6:
Apple’s Worldwide Developer’s Conference, or WWDC, has become the annual showcase of new iOS iterations. Last year saw an impressive, new iOS 5, which sought to upgrade the iPhone 4S more at the software level than with hardware. As a result of the iOS 5 overhaul, some have suggested that the 2012 WWDC may not feature iOS 6, but rather a refreshed iOS 5.5 instead, which would ostensibly fix some of the software-side energy consumption issues (see “Better Battery” above). But particularly if a new Assistant is set to replace Siri on the iPhone 5 (see “A Smarter Siri” above), iOS 6 might very well be in order. The only thing that could impede iOS 6 for a June release is if Apple chooses to release the iPhone 5 in June as well; the pressure to get the new iPhone out less than 12 months after the release of the 4S could strain the development of iOS 6. But given that iOS 5 was released last June, Apple most likely has a better head start on iOS 6 than currently meets the eye. (Probability: 8 out of 10 / Coolness Factor: 7 out of 10)
Thanks for reading our list of iPhone 5 features! Are we missing anything? If you think a rumored feature is missing here, be sure to drop us a line and let us know!
One Comment on "iPhone 5 Features"
this is a great article and i am impressed and i enjoyed the chances you put there that was ingenious
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