2019 iPhone lineup to bring "marked innovations," iPad with Face ID coming soon

Starting off in 2018, Kuo reconfirms previous information of three new iPhone models: an updated iPhone X, a larger 6.5-inch device dubbed the iPhone X Plus and a budget 6.1-inch LCD offering that could potentially be called iPhone. However, unlike recent information that claimed the latter model would go on sale at a later date, Kuo is now predicting that the smartphone will actually begin shipping in September alongside the other two OLED models. Furthermore, Kuo is expected this offering to entice users who are reluctant to upgrade due to the iPhone X-like features and a lower price tag of between $600 and $700 in the US.

In addition to the three new iPhone models that are expected later this year, the analyst is also predicting a pretty big upgrade to the iPad lineup with the launch of multiple models that are equipped with Face ID. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that no mention of a new bezel-less design was made. Also, Kuo expects the new Apple Watch, which is set to make an appearance at September’s event, to sport a larger display which will presumably mean a reduction in bezel size.

Moving into 2019, the analyst states that the final 2019 iPhone series design and features may not be finalized until September or October at the earliest. However, the models are expected to bring “marked innovations” that could increase upgrade demand, although the LCD variant is once again expected to ship more units than its OLED counterparts. 

Looking into the future, Kuo sees Apple itself as its own biggest competitor and attributes the slower growth in recent years to the lack of impressive new features since the iPhone 6 launch back in 2014. Because of this, the analyst believes future growth will depend largely on the standout features that newer iPhone devices include.

source: MacRumors