Iphone_7_1iPhone concept render. Image credit: Veniamin GeskinCredit: Forbes


You don't have to wait until Wednesday for Apple's big event to get some major (and credible) details about the new iPhone 7. In a research note obtained by AppleInsider, well-connected KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo lists 15 major changes coming to both the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, including more storage, 2x 12MP dual rear camera using 1x wide angle and 1x telephoto lenses, and upgraded light sensors for higher quality images when shooting in low light situations.

Here are the 15 features Kuo mentioned in his research note, via Forbes:

  • New True Tone displays like the iPad Pro range, with laser based proximity sensors for faster response times
  • 32GB, 128GB and 256GB storage tiers will replace 16GB, 64GB and 128GB
  • 2x 12MP dual rear camera limited to iPhone 7 Plus, uses 1x wide angle and 1x telephoto lenses
  • Upgraded ambient light sensors on both new iPhone cameras for better low light shots
  • Camera flash LEDs doubled from two to four with warm and cool colours
  • 3.5mm headphone jack removed
  • Lightning EarPods and a 3.5mm to Lightning headphone adaptor included in the box
  • Second external speaker and integrated amplifier for louder, richer output
  • Basic IPX7 water resistance – both phones can withstand splashes and full submersion for up to 30 minutes. Not quite Galaxy S7 level (one hour+), but close.
  • 2GB RAM for iPhone 7, 3GB RAM for iPhone 7 Plus
  • Next generation A10 chipset sees CPUs hit 2.45GHz clock speeds and 20-30% performance gains
  • 3D Touch 2.0 sensor with more distinct haptic feedback
  • Home button replaced with non-clicking touch sensor with haptic feedback
  • Antenna bands removed from the back of both models for cleaner look
  • Two new colors: dark black and piano black (latter in limited quantities for 256GB model); space grey color option ended

A lot of these features may make iPhone users happy, but the ones that will pique the interest of filmmakers specifically are, of course, the new camera upgrades, as well as the added storage. First of all, an upgraded display makes the iPhone a decent stand-in for those who may not have the money or access to professional monitors. Secondly, the 12MP dual camera design may give users the ability to choose between shooting wide angle and telephoto without incurring as much degradation to the image as the current iPhone's zoom option. Thirdly, its new waterproof feature is reminiscent of the GoPro, meaning that the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus can be used in more shooting situations, including in the rain and under water, without fear of destroying the device. Lastly, offloading data won't be as much of a concern now that users will have the option to essentially double the amount of storage they currently have on their iPhones, which will be a major boon for those who shoot a lot of video.

The Apple event kicks off on Wednesday, so stay tuned for an official report on all of the new iPhone 7 features and more.

Source: AppleInsider