With Apple devices, the only thing more fun than speculating about the next big device is speculating about the next big device that will follow the next big device. Consider this little rumor as just that – speculation about Apple’s next-next-gen devices.
According to “industry sources,” Apple is planning on using curved glass displays in their upcoming devices – not the upcoming devices that most people think will launch next month, but in devices that will launch in 2012. This could include all of their products that run iOS, including iPhones and iPads.
DigiTimes reports that Apple’s competitors are ramping up for curved-screen products as a way to compete with the iPhone. But Apple is also apparently ready for curved glass displays –
Apple reportedly also has bought glass polishing equipment for its suppliers in preparation for the production of devices fitted with curved cover glass. Lens Technology, Fuji Crystal, G-Tech are said to be major cover glass suppliers of Apple. While Lens and Fuji focus on iPhones, G-Tech supplies mainly for iPad.
This is not the first time we’ve heard talk about Apple experimenting with curved glass displays for their devices. Back in May, reports emerged that said Apple had purchased a couple hundred glass cutting machines built specifically for curved glass.
If there’s any truth to this rumor, Apple wouldn’t be the first to give a phone a curvy look. The Android-powered Nexus S, HTC Sensation and Dell Venue all sport curved glass displays.
Apple and “curved glass” also have another connection, as the brand new Cupertino campus that has been proposed by Steve Jobs would feature a giant curved glass window around its circular frame.
Folks expect that the iPhone 5 (and possibly a 4S) will be unveiled at the next big Apple media event, rumored to be taking place on October 4th. That would mean that the iPhone 5 would hit shelves sometime in mid-October.
But those devices aren’t expected to feature curved glass. This new curved glass design would only affect devices into 2012, possibly an iPad 3 or the iPhone 6. Would you want your Apple products to sport this kind of display? Let us know what you think.
