Apple's next-generation iPhone 6s lineup will reportedly retain the same storage tiers as the iPhone 6, as well as the same contract prices.
As the company's big September 9 unveiling draws closer, more information is coming to light regarding the upcoming devices. A slew of leaks and reports have painted a picture of what to expect, and a new report now claims to have "confirmation" for some aspects.
Citing unnamed sources, 9to5Mac reveals that Apple's new iPhone 6s will indeed boast a tougher 7000 series aluminum alloy, and it will also come in the same storage configurations as its predecessors.
Ever since Apple launched its iPhone 3GS, the base model for each iPhone iteration has come with 16 GB of storage. With apps and videos notably increasing in size in the meantime, many have criticized the company for not offering more storage without increasing the starting price. Some hoped that the new iPhone 6s would finally be the one to make a change.
If 9to5Mac's sources turn out to be accurate, however, Apple will retain the same storage and contract pricing tiers.
"Despite new capabilities and the presence of 4K video recording in the new iPhones, sources say that the new iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus will retain the same storage tiers as the current iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus: 16 GB, 64 GB, and 128 GB," reports the Apple-centric publication.
Pricing options will also be the same as those for the 2014 iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, at least on contract. This means that the 16 GB, 64 GB and 128 GB versions will cost $199, $299 and $399, respectively, for the iPhone 6s, and $299, $399 and $499, respectively, for the iPhone 6s Plus.
While some were expecting Apple to discontinue the older iPhone 5s model, 9to5Mac notes that it will stick around for one more year. The iPhone 5s will continue to be available as the cheapest iPhone model, as it will be "free" on contract. The plastic iPhone 5c model, meanwhile, will get the boot.
Lastly, 9to5Mac points out that a 4-inch iPhone 6c will likely not make its debut at Apple's September 9 event, although it has been in the works. It remains unclear whether it will launch at a later date or if Apple has canceled such plans.
In terms of design, the upcoming iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus will retain the same language of the current models, but will also add a number of new features. Among the highlights, the 2015 iPhones should come with Force Touch, 12-megapixel rear cameras with 4K video recording capabilities, more powerful Apple A9 processors, 2 GB of RAM instead of just 1 GB, a new Rose Gold color option, and animated wallpapers.
The iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are expected to make their formal debut on September 9 and go on sale on September 18.
