iPhone 8 Will Be More Expensive, Release Date Might Be Delayed

Apple's upcoming iPhone 8 is reported will be more expensive than the current iPhone lineup. Although this trend is nothing new since it has been like that whenever there is a new iPhone entering the market, but the whooping $1000 starting price could bring up some hesitation to potential buyers out there.

It appears that the 3D Touch module in the OLED iPhone will cost more than the LED which currently utilizes by the existing iPhone 7 models. According to the report, the cost has increased up to 60% ($15), and that Apple will have to retain its margins when producing premium products such as the iPhone 8.   

The OLED screen will use a thin film touch sensor overlaid onto an AMOLED display, explained Digitimes. TPK Holdings will be supplying the display hardware beginning of the fourth quarter this year. This new information sparks the speculation that iPhone 8 may probably launch later than the typical September release date.

The AMOLED panel will need a new type of 3D touch sensor, and will require a more complicated manufacturing process, the report added. In comparison, 3D touch modules in the iPhone 7 models cost $9 to make whereas for iPhone 8 it will rise to $15. Although the difference is only $6 if you look at it, it is a substantial relative cost increase of 60%. Other electrical components would add up to a much higher build cost, and Apple is unlikely to lower its per-device margins.

In addition to iPhone 8, apple is expected to announce another 2 new iPhones this year, in conjunction with the celebration of its 10th anniversary. These two will be the iterative updates of the current flagship iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus - with the same external body but the new design. The name iPhone 8, however, is not yet final. However, the new device will include a brand new all-glass chassis with the 3D front camera, with some exciting new features such as wireless charging and upgraded battery.