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Apple is expected to introduce the successors to the iPhone 12 series - the iPhone 2021 lineup - in September this year. Now there are further details about the features and functionality.
Although the launch of the next iPhone generation is still a few months away, we document new rumors almost regularly. Now the well-known leaker Max Weinbach (via EverythingApplePro) has spoken out again. Weinbach claims that the iPhone 13 or iPhone 12S (name yet unknown) will come with a matte black option for the Pro and Pro Max models. It will also feature a new stainless steel coating that reduces dirt and fingerprints. In addition, the design of the rear camera will be updated and improved noise cancellation with beamforming for phone calls will be used. Last month, Weinbach claimed that Apple is planning an always-on display as part of the design for this year's iPhone. He is now building on that rumor, saying that in addition to a 120Hz always-on display, Apple will likely offer a matte black option for the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.
iPhone 2021: No more dirt and fingerprints
According to Weinbach, the color is a "redesigned graphite" but "borderline black." Weinbach also says Apple is experimenting with an orange, almost bronze-like color for the new iPhones. However, his sources say it's unlikely that this orange option will appear. The iPhone 12 series brought back the beloved flat-edged design, as well as stainless steel edges for the 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max. Since the models' launch, users have complained about the "ability of the edges" to attract dirt and fingerprints—especially with gold. Apple plans to address the problem with the next iPhone by using a new anti-smudge and fingerprint coating, Weinbach says. Regarding the rear camera, Weinbach is promising a new design. But it won't be completely flattened. According to his sources, the lenses will still protrude this year, but not as dramatically as on previous models.
Portrait mode is being revised
In addition to a number of new features, the portrait photography area will also be improved. A new process will be used - according to Weinbach. The leaker reports that the portrait mode on the new Pro iPhones will be based largely on LiDAR. LiDAR, currently available on the iPhone 12 Pro, Pro Max and iPad Pro, is used for improved low-light photography. Weinbach notes, however, that Apple will go a step further with portrait mode this year.
The portrait mode of the new iPhones is being heavily redesigned and is now based on a new process that combines data from both the lenses and LiDAR. LiDAR is used in particular for significantly better edge detection. Things like small gaps in street signs should now be detected by the new process. This fits in with the portrait video as a portrait mode revision that Apple is working on for the 2021 iPhones.
A new mode is also to be integrated into iOS - image stabilization correction. This recognizes a subject during a video and focuses on it automatically. Since the function is software-based, it remains to be seen whether special hardware is required. This means that the feature may also debut on older devices. Finally, Weinbach explains that Apple also wants to introduce four models this year - the direct successors to the iPhone 12 series. This means that a new mini model is also included. (Image: EverythingApplePro)
