While it’s exciting to read about the latest rumours regarding the iPhone 8, the fact is that the more new features it has, the more likely there are to be some hiccups in its development.
According to technology news and reviews website CNET, Apple might be trying to incorporate Touch ID into the screen of the new iPhone so users can unlock their phone simply by touching the display. However, various reports claim the company has run into problems attempting to combine the technologies involved.
CNET has obtained a memo from analysts at Cowen & Co. that claims Apple has not finalised its Touch ID plans for the upcoming iPhone. This claim should not be seen as anything but a claim though – the investment company has a chequered history when it comes to predicting Apple’s plans.
Apple, as ever, is keeping mum, having not responded to a request for comment from CNET.
The Cowen & Co. analysts claim Apple is currently evaluating three different options for embedding Touch ID into the display:
1. A thinner glass cover over the fingerprint section
2. Making a pin hole in the glass for ultrasonic or optical fingerprint recognition
3. Using a film-like fingerprint detection system instead of the AuthenTec Touch ID
All three options imply a front-based fingerprint sensor, contradicting earlier reports that Apple had decided to move the sensor to the rear of the phone.
Because the company is reportedly busy trying to figure out what to do regarding Touch ID, Cowen & Co. anticipates that the first iPhone 8 shipments might have to be postponed by as much as two months, with the device appearing in shops during the fourth quarter of 2017.
To compensate for this, Cowen & Co. believes Apple may stock up to 90 million iPhones in the fourth quarter. Apple sold 78.3 million iPhones during the final quarter of last year, so could break its own sales record even if the iPhone 8 is delayed.