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Here Are The Latest iPhone 8 and MacBook Rumors

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For years, Apple (AAPL - Free Report) was heralded as the tech world’s top innovator, and its product launches were always highly anticipated. However, with iPhone sales slumping and critics chiming in about the company’s design choices, Apple’s product debuts are not what they once were. Nevertheless, some users are already looking forward to what Apple will do with the iPhone 8 and the next line of MacBooks.

iPhone 8 Buzz

Apple is expected to release three new iPhones in 2017, including two for an alleged “iPhone 7s” lineup. However, rumors are already swirling about the iPhone 8, which is expected to debut much later in the year.

Right now, many within the industry expect the iPhone 8 to include a curved Samsung OLED panel, measuring a little over 5 inches. This would be the first OLED display on Apple’s flagship mobile phone line and would represent a move towards a bigger screen.

We expect Apple to be going with an OLED display because of a growing level of concern from its competitors over the availability of OLED screens. With Apple finally utilizing the OLED technology, many of the company’s China-based rivals are worried about a worldwide supply shortage.

The other persisting iPhone 8 rumor surrounds wireless charging. Many people expect the iPhone 8 to be rolled out with some level of wireless charging capabilities due to other rumors that Apple is reverting back to glass backs, as its metal cases could interfere with wireless signals.

Cue Energous Corporation (WATT - Free Report) , a developer of a wire-free charging technology that promises to offer long-distance wireless charging abilities. While Energous is a long way from successfully delivering on its early ideas, many are linking Apple and Energous, and we could see some Energous tech in the iPhone 8.

There have also been some whispers that Apple is looking to gain an IP68 water and dust resistance certification for the iPhone 8. This is a tougher level of certification than is seen on the iPhone 7, and it would mean that the phone could be submerged at 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.

MacBook Murmurs

Apple just debuted its latest version of the MacBook Pro after a long wait. While it appears that the new MacBooks are selling well, many users and critics were upset with its price point and several of Apple’s design choices, including capping its RAM capabilities at 16 GB and using older interior mechanisms.

Despite these new laptops just being released, rumors are already swirling that Apple is looking to address some of these criticisms. In fact, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently published a research note that suggested Apple was looking to update the MacBook again before the end of the year.

According to Kuo, Apple is set to offer price discounts throughout the year, update to Intel’s (INTC - Free Report) latest line of chips, fix battery life complaints, and debut a 32 GB 15-inch option. Kuo said he anticipates a new 12-inch model to come out in Q2, with the updated Pros coming in Q3.

Bottom Line

It seems like users are critiquing Apple’s newest products more so than ever, and that may be reflected in the company’s sales difficulties. Nevertheless, if the rumors surrounding the iPhone 8 and MacBook Pro eventually pan out, Apple could be right back in a leadership position.

Also Read: This Old Apple Slogan Perfectly Explains What's Wrong With The Company Today

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