Apple is reportedly eyeing an expansion of its iPhone lineup in 2013 and 2014, which may include cheaper price points, larger screen sizes and multiple colors.
According to Reuters, Cupertino is apparently considering a $99 iPhone iteration, along with 4.7-inch and 5.7 iPhone handsets. The publication also confirms that the purported new models are a direct response to Samsung’s flagship lineup of Galaxy smartphones.
“Apple constantly change[s] product specifications almost to the final moment, so you’re not really sure whether this is the final prototype,” the source told Reuters.
“Trial production was originally planned to start in June, but the mixing of colours is taking longer than expected as Apple has very high and idealistic standards.”
As AppleInsider points out, one of the first “questionable” reports about a 4.8-inch iPhone first surfaced in January, although rumors of an iPhone phablet have since quieted.
“Perhaps more interesting in Thursday’s report are details regarding a lower cost iPhone, which sources said could be priced as low as $99,” wrote AppleInsider.
“As widely speculated, the entry-level handset is to be produced in a variety of colors and will be made of plastic to keep costs down.”
