Apple iPhone 6c expected to be launched early next year

Apple, reportedly, is planning to introduce a new iPhone early next year. According to tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the phone will not be the successor to the flagship iPhone 6s, it instead would be replace the two-year-old iPhone 5s.

If rumours are to be believed, the new iPhone, dubbed iPhone 6c, will feature a 4-inch display, the size same as the iPhone 5s.

The phone is expected to come with same camera specs same as the iPhone 5s i.e, an 8 megapixel iSight camera and a 1.2 megapixel front. The phone, however, could come with the latest A9 chip.

The rumoured iPhone could come in a metal case available in two or three color options.

The KSG Securities analyst expects Apple to respond to demand for a smaller form factor with an estimated 15 million to 17 million 4-inch iPhones shipped in 2015.

A lower market price of USD 400 to USD 500, up to USD 249 less than an iPhone 6s, would also help the iPhone increase adoption in emerging markets - places where Android smartphones have traditionally had the edge - while the integration of Near Field Communication technology would support the Apple Pay system.

Ming-Chi Kuo's strong track record of predictions includes Cupertino's adoption of fingerprint sensors, the larger iPad Pro, and two sizes for the Apple Watch.