Apple Orders Display Driver Chips From Synaptics for Next iPhones

[576316]

Nice concept. Are we thinking it's likely they'll remove the physical home button? It would look cool, I think, but might make trouble shooting more difficult when the software stops responding or taking inputs.

 

[Rafterman]

There has to be at least one physical button for easier device recovery. If they want to make the device smaller, maybe they could integrate it into the sides, like the volume buttons.

 

[dannys1]

I'm sure you will be the very 1st to tell Apple they have done it wrong if/when they fit a AMOLED screen into a phone.
In the same way, I'm certain, right now you will also be happy to say Apple was wrong to fit such a screen in their watch.

Are you ?

I don't like the OLED display in my watch to be honest no. Again, I don't like white on black, so unfortunately i've proven your sarcasm wrong. The iPhone 6 is already too big, but at least the LCD screen is perfect. It needs to be no higher resolution (pointless) nor does it need to be OLED (too much white in iOS, the battery will be terrible and the last thing I want is for iOS to start looking like Samsungs horrendous touchwiz just to get reasonable battery life)

For me, it's not about seeing more or less pixels. I've seen both the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus displays and the 6 Plus looks better. If a 1080p display can bring better images, then I'm all for it.

Besides, the A9 is more than adequate to drive a higher-resolution display.

Then it cause a nightmare for devs to resize everything again. Then you'd also have a smaller device with a higher PPI - I still see no point in making the PPI higher and wasting battery cycles (its about battery life, not if the CPU can easily do it)

Isn't OLED much more energy efficient? Also, it allows for thinner devices, and that's all Jony Ive needs to hear.

No its not more energy efficient unless its showing all black (in which case all the pixels are off, where as LCD still uses its backlight to show black to a degree)

Thats why you'll notice Samsung always used white text on black (and why the Apple watch does) as it means 90% of the pixels are off. Start introducing colours (and the whiter/lighter the worse) the more energy it uses. To display a white screen it uses about 5x more power than an LCD displaying a white screen.

I wouldn't be surprised if the nano pixel technology Samsung are using in LCD based TV's now becomes the future in phones at some point as its near the colour intensity of OLED without the drawbacks for mobile devices.

 

[ghost187]

No its not more energy efficient unless its showing all black (in which case all the pixels are off, where as LCD still uses its backlight to show black to a degree)

Thats why you'll notice Samsung always used white text on black (and why the Apple watch does) as it means 90% of the pixels are off. Start introducing colours (and the whiter/lighter the worse) the more energy it uses. To display a white screen it uses about 5x more power than an LCD displaying a white screen.

I wouldn't be surprised if the nano pixel technology Samsung are using in LCD based TV's now becomes the future in phones at some point as its near the colour intensity of OLED without the drawbacks for mobile devices.

Well in that case, the variable refresh rate found on the iPad Pro will probably make its way to the iPhone for better efficiency.

I'm probably also the first person you encountered that's worked on optical lens design professionally. Without getting to the world-of-its-own optical lingo, all surfaces absorbs, reflects or transmits light in some manner. The finish on the latest iPhone scatters light along its surface for the sheen effect intended by the industrial designers. If the lens was not out a millimeter or so as it is now, that light transmitted along the surface of the phone can leak into the camera lens and occlude the image. It is even worst if the flash is used. IMPO, this is why the lens cover sticks out approximately a millimeter.

Cool, makes a lot of sense. Next time someone complains about the protruding camera lens, I will refer back to this post.

 

[Rodrigo Freijanes]

What Apple should do to make me give up Andoid:
Bezelless
Fast Charge
AMOLED
Bigger battery like 2.500mAh and 3.500mAh (Plus).

Would be cool:
Back button
32GB minimal
Touch ID on device's back
Screen resistance like that Motorola
Waterproof

 

[nviz22]

It's too early to make conjectures on realistic iPhone expectations for the 7/7+.

As for my ideal iPhone 7, 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB models, big battery, QHD screen for Youtube content, dual front facing speakers, water resistance, some sort of quick charge function, maybe curved screens like the Galaxy Edge or some sort of intuitive LG V10 type of second screen, FM Radio, actual front facing camera that records in 1080p.

 

[ksuyen]

One thing you can rely on Apple being these days is 'legacy-loyal'. In other words everything is still based on old designs from the Jobs era. They look identical to the 2007 model eight years ago with no major changes since his demise, only resized products based on the original iPhone. Now. You can decide if this is a respectful gesture by Apple to honour Steve's foresight and unique talent in innovating stuff people wanted. Or you can say Tim 'The Caretaker' Cook is treading water nowadays. If past track record is anything to go by then it's a safe bet you'll not have too steep a learning curve with the next 'un. Result!

Exactly why I love my iPhone. Not saying I am a dumb guy, but a phone should't have a steep learning curve to use from the get go. Apple realize this concept so well, that's why they are very proud of their user friendliness. Having said that, the current iPhone is totally different from the first iPhone on 2007, especially the software. Well, we can say, they are "similiar" but "different". It's not the same as "looks identical". Semantic, lol, but you know the two is actually very different.

 

[melendezest]

There's a reason other handsets need all that RAM, and that reason is all the baggage and clunk that using a Java-based OS brings along for the ride. Look what iPhones do with DUAL cores, that Octa-core 3-4GB Android phones can't even hope to get near, performance wise. You don't add more RAM "just because", and certainly they wouldn't add it to "compete" with Android handsets. For there to be more RAM there should be a NEED for it, and 2GB is perfectly okay for now. Also, Apple know ALL the proprietary details of their designs and how to optimise them best, so you'll find the best "advisors" to Apple engineers are Apple engineers.

Riiiiight. Well, perhaps for iPhone users this is enough. Talk to me in 2 years.

The thing is (and the main point I'm trying to make) is that unless you upgrade constantly, your "experience" will degrade over time with an Apple product, faster than its competitors. Especially when it concerns the iPhone. Every OS release makes it slower and slower.

I (still) use a Galaxy S4 and a Note 3, and I honestly see no need to replace them. The hardware is that good. I see no performance issues upgrading to the newer Android versions, and even if I we're to not like the experience, look, whatever, I can downgrade with ease.

I am not saying that Apple makes a bad product. Far from it. The iPhone 6s Plus is the iPhone I would have wanted 2-3 years ago. But I just got tired of not getting what I want from them. Period.

After tasting the Android waters, the Apple kool-aid doesn't taste as sweet.

The Galaxy Note 3/4 is as close to perfect in my opinion as a smartphone/pocket PC can be while not being Apple. Too bad Sammy f'ed up that line as well by copying Apple (too much).

 

[melendezest]

Oh really? But what you actually said was: More = Better.
Sure, but there are no competitors with excellent performance. Android phones are only optimized for certain specs, biggest screen, most pixel, most megapixel, most cores, most memory etc. And when you compare actual performance, best pictures, smoothest scrolling, longest battery life etc. you will find that they all fall behind iPhone. You can't cram a 4K screen into a phone and expect it to have good battery life and also be thin and light as well.
Even if you have an Android phone with 4GB RAM, no developer could target that market, because there is no guarantee how many new phones will have that much. Android hardware fragmentation prevents real progress. Even so Androids had NFC and Fingerprint sensors earlier, the state of secure payments is a joke.

HTC stored user fingerprints as image file in unencrypted folder
Apple doesn't even care about performance, they optimize experience. Sometimes they do a bad job at it, but they always strive for a better experience. So finally that's what they end up with. Phones which won't win on specs, but on the merits of usage experience.

"Sure, but there are no competitors with excellent performance." So you say. My experience says otherwise.

Now when it comes to RAM yes, more = better if done appropriately (as in the system can handle it). Are you being purposely dense?

Have you not seen the posts in these forums clamoring for more RAM in iDevices, and jumping for joy when Apple actually puts it in?? 2GB is enough? Fine. At this point, I wouldn't know firsthand. I refuse to fall for Apple's BS marketing any longer.

Look, it's okay. You love your iPhone. Fine. Enjoy it.

But don't try to sell me that it's a better experience and that its comparative limitations are justified.

I don't care.

I choose the Sammy Note Series and Galaxy Series knowingly, willfully, not be cause I have an irrational disdain for Apple, but because they provide a better experience for me and still give me more control over my device than Apple does. This makes them a better value in my book.

I get everything I need from those devices, things that Apple won't do (I know they can, but they want to leave something out so you want to upgrade later).

I just don't want to play that game anymore.

 

[8692574]

I (still) use a Galaxy S4 and a Note 3, and I honestly see no need to replace them. The hardware is that good. I see no performance issues upgrading to the newer Android versions, and even if I we're to not like the experience, look, whatever, I can downgrade with ease.

I am not saying that Apple makes a bad product. Far from it. The iPhone 6s Plus is the iPhone I would have wanted 2-3 years ago. But I just got tired of not getting what I want from them. Period.

After tasting the Android waters, the Apple kool-aid doesn't taste as sweet.

The Galaxy Note 3/4 is as close to perfect in my opinion as a smartphone/pocket PC can be while not being Apple. Too bad Sammy f'ed up that line as well by copying Apple (too much).

That is because your Galaxy and Note 3 hardly had any update, i see people perfectly fine on iPhone 4 S around town, most of them did not update , some did, but at the end of the day they allseed still happy.


And when Samsung does update its phones this happens "http://appleinsider.com/articles/15...-android-code-samsung-added-to-galaxy-s6-edge"

 

[melendezest]

That is because your Galaxy and Note 3 hardly had any update, i see people perfectly fine on iPhone 4 S around town, most of them did not update , some did, but at the end of the day they allseed still happy.

Well, my Note 3 and S4 are on KitKat, which is 2 updates I believe (not keeping track).

My kids use my 2 old 4ses, and they always want to use my phone.

So much for that theory.

Regardless, even stock, I can do more with my over 2 year old Sammy phones than with a current iPhone.

It would be a downgrade for me.

 

[8692574]

Well, my Note 3 and S4 are on KitKat, which is 2 updates I believe (not keeping track).

My kids use my 2 old 4ses, and they always want to use my phone.

So much for that theory.

Regardless, even stock, I can do more with my over 2 year old Sammy phones than with a current iPhone.

It would be a downgrade for me.

4.2.2 > 4.4.4 hardly can be called 2 software updates. (and i mean MAJOR)


iPhone 4s iOS 5 >IOS 9 (and all the little updates in between)
If it does what you want fine, I am not arguing that, but my theory stands...

 

[melendezest]

4.2.2 > 4.4.4 hardly can be called 2 software updates. (and i mean MAJOR)


iPhone 4s iOS 5 >IOS 9 (and all the little updates in between)
If it does what you want fine, I am not arguing that, but my theory stands...

OK, your theory stands...outside my reality.

So yeah, happiness is subjective.

What's not subjective, is what I can do with my old phone that I STILL cannot do with iPhone:

(Keep in mind, I couldn't care less if these features are/are not popular, they matter to me)

1. IR blaster: My phone is also a universal remote. I use this feature daily.

2. Removable/expandable storage: It sucks to run out of space on your device. I can expand at will. Whether it's easy or difficult is irrelevant, with iPhone (and its clones) I cannot do it AT ALL.

3. Removable battery: I can keep a spare handy and/or replace it myself if it goes bad. No Apple Store Genius Bar appointment needed.

4. File system access: I can organize things the way I want to, and my reasons are my own. Or I can let the OS decide. You get one of those choices with Apple.

5. USB connectivity: Proprietary sucks. I can easily and inexpensively find/reuse chargers, transfer files between Apple and non-Apple devices, replace cables, etc.

6. Android flexibility: I can arrange icons, install skins/templates, use widgets, at will, to suit MY taste. With Apple, you get (and are STUCK with), a "girly" OS. I hate its color palette.

Aside from the above, the devices do the same things (just not the same way).

If I had to use an Apple phone (or any phone, for that matter) that lacks the above after having them for over 2 years, I would NOT be happy.

So from my perspective, theories are pointless. I live in the real world.

And in said world, an iPhone just doesn't cut it for me.

 

[jpbl1976]

I'm sorry but am I the only one who is sick of hearing those quotes?

In an era of "revolution" it makes sense, but the adage does not apply every time, especially in the context of current Apple products.

The revolution already happened (the Mac, the iPod, the iPhone, the iPad). What we have here now are "mature" products that will not fundamentally change.

I know what I want:

I want multiple user accounts on mobile devices
I want more RAM in sealed/mobile devices, not the bare minimum
I want access to the file system in mobile devices
I want ease of connectivity and compatibility (as in NOT proprietary)
I want to install whichever OS version I prefer (or at least revert to the one that came with my device)
I want portable computers with upgradeable components (RAM, HD)
I want desktop computers with upgradeable components (at least Graphics Cards, RAM, HDs)

Curerntly, Apple does NONE of the above.

I'm all for innovation and revolution, but not at the expense of functionality in the current environment.

You're not getting any of those from Apple -- and even if you were to switch to Android and Windows, you'll find that you're not getting those either -- Windows is actually forcing updates now and plenty of its OEMs are going the Apple way by shipping notebooks that don't open easily/aren't easily upgradeable. Desktops are still okay but you'll have to build your own device to get the best value (it's fun though).

Meanwhile, Android's OEMs are refusing to let go of their skin customizations and are doing away with SD card slots and user-replaceable batteries. Some devices like Samsung's ship with a TON of RAM but are crippled so you may as well have half of it.

The reality is, Apple has always carefully curated its user's experiences -- the old Mac Pro and MBP were the few remaining 'tweakable' Apple devices (the Mac Pros still sell for A LOT these days) but when you're the only OEM who makes good money (Apple makes close to 90% of smartphone profits and is one of the few -- the only? -- PC makers whose unit sales actually saw growth in recent periods), everyone's going to want to copy what you're doing.

So while I'd love for your list to become reality, as time passes, shipped devices are going to diverge further and further from it.

 

[jpbl1976]

OK, your theory stands...outside my reality.

So yeah, happiness is subjective.

What's not subjective, is what I can do with my old phone that I STILL cannot do with iPhone:

(Keep in mind, I couldn't care less if these features are/are not popular, they matter to me)

1. IR blaster: My phone is also a universal remote. I use this feature daily.

2. Removable/expandable storage: It sucks to run out of space on your device. I can expand at will. Whether it's easy or difficult is irrelevant, with iPhone (and its clones) I cannot do it AT ALL.

3. Removable battery: I can keep a spare handy and/or replace it myself if it goes bad. No Apple Store Genius Bar appointment needed.

4. File system access: I can organize things the way I want to, and my reasons are my own. Or I can let the OS decide. You get one of those choices with Apple.

5. USB connectivity: Proprietary sucks. I can easily and inexpensively find/reuse chargers, transfer files between Apple and non-Apple devices, replace cables, etc.

6. Android flexibility: I can arrange icons, install skins/templates, use widgets, at will, to suit MY taste. With Apple, you get (and are STUCK with), a "girly" OS. I hate its color palette.

Aside from the above, the devices do the same things (just not the same way).

If I had to use an Apple phone (or any phone, for that matter) that lacks the above after having them for over 2 years, I would NOT be happy.

So from my perspective, theories are pointless. I live in the real world.

And in said world, an iPhone just doesn't cut it for me.

Eventually, 1 to 3 are going the way of the dodo -- which is why I'm hoping Sammy reverses course and ships an SD slot with its next generation of devices.

Visually, Android isn't nearly as flexible these days unless you root and install a custom ROM -- you're stuck with CrapWiz otherwise -- but you'll lose NFC payments if you do. Sure, you can always install a custom launcher with icon pack support but it's not as deep because it doesn't skin your menus, settings screens, quick access panel, etc. Your best bet for customisation is a Nexus device but hardware-wise it's actually been closer to an Apple device (i.e. no expansion slot/no replaceable battery) for several generations now. IR blasters are getting rarer too (the Note 4 was one of the remaining 'mainstream' Android devices that had one).

I hope whatever device you're using is very durable because several of the things you're clinging to are going away. That's what's happening in the real world you're fond of talking about...

 

[melendezest]

You're not getting any of those from Apple -- and even if you were to switch to Android and Windows, you'll find that you're not getting those either -- Windows is actually forcing updates now and plenty of its OEMs are going the Apple way by shipping notebooks that don't open easily/aren't easily upgradeable. Desktops are still okay but you'll have to build your own device to get the best value (it's fun though).

Meanwhile, Android's OEMs are refusing to let go of their skin customizations and are doing away with SD card slots and user-replaceable batteries. Some devices like Samsung's ship with a TON of RAM but are crippled so you may as well have half of it.

The reality is, Apple has always carefully curated its user's experiences -- the old Mac Pro and MBP were the few remaining 'tweakable' Apple devices (the Mac Pros still sell for A LOT these days) but when you're the only OEM who makes good money (Apple makes close to 90% of smartphone profits and is one of the few -- the only? -- PC makers whose unit sales actually saw growth in recent periods), everyone's going to want to copy what you're doing.

So while I'd love for your list to become reality, as time passes, shipped devices are going to diverge further and further from it.

Agreed.

I'm stuck in no-man's land here, trying to procure older hardware so I can do what I want and need to now.

An old Mac Pro still seems like a viable option for me, but as you said, they're still quite expensive. Even the 13-in cMBP Apple still sells is a better alternative with no compromises for my use cases.

It is frustrating that I simply cannot replace my equipment, regardless of the vendor, and keep my capabilities intact.

 

[melendezest]

Eventually, 1 to 3 are going the way of the dodo -- which is why I'm hoping Sammy reverses course and ships an SD slot with its next generation of devices.

Visually, Android isn't nearly as flexible these days unless you root and install a custom ROM -- you're stuck with CrapWiz otherwise -- but you'll lose NFC payments if you do. Sure, you can always install a custom launcher with icon pack support but it's not as deep because it doesn't skin your menus, settings screens, quick access panel, etc. Your best bet for customisation is a Nexus device but hardware-wise it's actually been closer to an Apple device (i.e. no expansion slot/no replaceable battery) for several generations now. IR blasters are getting rarer too (the Note 4 was one of the remaining 'mainstream' Android devices that had one).

I hope whatever device you're using is very durable because several of the things you're clinging to are going away. That's what's happening in the real world you're fond of talking about...

Again, agreed.

I am looking to get a Note 4 (should be cheap). That device should be good for quite a while, as it certainly has the specs to last.

I don't mind "crapwiz", but I don't love it either. So again, no-man's land for me. Oh well.

I guess that comes with getting old. They just don't make 'em like they used to.

Still, I'm good in the real world for at least 3 more years.

Here's to hoping these companies stop copying Apple and deliver somethig actually better.

Or that Jony Ive goes away...