A new research note from KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo corroborates earlier reports that Apple is planning to release a 4-inch iPhone in early 2016.Kuo believes that the 4-inch iPhone will resemble an upgraded iPhone 5s and feature an A9 chip made by both TSMC and Samsung, 2.5D cover glass, NFC, a metal casing with at least 2 to 3 color options, and the same camera specs as the iPhone 5s. While new model may not generate huge sales, Apple still has good reasons to launch. These are: (1) still-existing demand for 4-inch smartphones. We estimate 15-17mn 4-inch iPhones will be shipped in 2015. We estimate the new 4-inch model will account for 8-9% of total iPhone shipments in 2016F; (2) expected price of US$400-500, with the aim of penetrating emerging markets and consumers on smaller budgets; and (3) adoption of NFC will support Apple Pay, benefiting the ecosystem. Share Article:Facebook,   Twitter,   LinkedIn,   Google Plus,   Email,   Reddit,   Digg,   Delicious,   StumbleUponFollow iClarified:Facebook,   Twitter,   LinkedIn,   Google Plus,   Newsletter,   App Store,   YouTubeAdvertise Here

Source: iClarified Read More: Apple to Release 4-Inch iPhone in Early 2016 With Colorful Metal Casing?