iPhone 7 Release Date Update: 4-Inch iPhone Geared For 2016 As Apple To Repackage iPhone 5S/5C As Budget Phones

Apple is likely to issue a new 4-inch iPhone model but it will not materialise in time for the iPhone 7 release date this 2015. The iPhone 6C or 7C will have to wait until 2016 and one of the device’s core features is integration with the Apple Pay system, a new report said.

In the past, Ming-chi Kuo of KGI Securities has established a solid reputation of providing accurate predictions when it comes to Apple products and services. This week, Kuo is utilising his crystal ball anew in projecting that a third iPhone model this year is not serious consideration by the tech giant.

2016 unboxing

According to Apple Insider, the well-known analyst is not discounting the possibility of the 4-inch iPhone making a triumphant return soon but not this 2016. The handset, Kuo said, is lined up for next year and the launch of which will complete the Apple Pay implementation within the iOS ecosystem.

And there are many reasons why the iPhone maker is rushing the project. For one, the 4-inch iPhone 5S remains a lure to buyers so instead of bumping off the 2013 flagship Apple is likely to keep its production going at least until this 2015. The same goes for the colourful and plastic-encased iPhone 5C.

Essentially, the two devices will make up the budget iPhone line up by Apple. There is a possibility, however, that the iPhone 5S could be subjected to some form of manufacturing adjustments that would make it a low-cost smartphone. “It was suggested that Apple could repackage the parts of the iPhone 5s and give it a plastic back,” Apple Insider said on its report.

Such move also suggests that the iPhone 5C retirement could be in the offing. But Kuo noted on his report that it will not happen to soon, explaining that the 5C is expected to complete its life cycle this 2015.

Why the 4-inch iPhone?

As mentioned, the 4-inch iPhone is Apple’s way of covering every ground in establishing the Apple Pay system a standard in the mobile industry. Furthermore, the handset model represents a brilliant business move for Apple, Kuo said.

The iPhone 6C or 7C is “key to extending momentum,” for Apple fans who elected to stick with the 4-inch variant following the introduction of the upsized models in late 2014. The 4.7-inch iPhone 6 and 5.5-inch 6 Plus last year proved the most successful builds for Apple so far but a significant portion of the company’s loyal fans remains enamoured with the 4-inch model. The 6C or 7C push next year will answer to that need, Kuo suggested.

With or without the smaller edition, the iPhone 7 release date is pegged to take place in the second half of 2015. The target month is between September and October as mass production of the device is rumoured to start in June.

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