Repeated Image Leaks... The Unveiling of the 'iPhone 13'

[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] The design of Apple's 'iPhone 13 (tentative name)' series, expected to be released in the second half of this year, is gradually being unveiled.

On the 17th (local time), IT media 9TO5MAC reported, citing IT tipster DuanRui, that the size of the notch will be changed. The notch refers to the recessed area at the top of the smartphone screen that houses the front camera and various sensors.

According to the images shared by DuanRui, the notch has become smaller than before, especially with a significant reduction in horizontal width. The earpiece speaker, which was previously in the center, has been moved to the top. 9TO5MAC predicted that "the horizontal width of the notch will be reduced by about 30%." However, it speculated that "due to the method of moving the earpiece to the top bezel, the vertical height of the notch may increase." It has not yet been decided how the space gained by reducing the notch will be utilized. 9TO5MAC estimated that the battery percentage indicator might be displayed in that area.

Meanwhile, some design details of the 'iPhone 13 mini,' which was rumored to be discontinued due to poor sales of the 'iPhone 12 mini,' have also been leaked. According to IT media PhoneArena, the screen size of the iPhone 13 mini is expected to be the same as its predecessor, while the device thickness is expected to increase by 0.26mm compared to the previous model. Additionally, since the iPhone 12 mini showed shortcomings in battery life, the battery life is expected to improve compared to before.

Another noticeable change is the diagonal arrangement inside the rear camera module. According to CAD images collaboratively created by concept designers 9TechEleven and Ian Zelbo, the cameras on the iPhone 13 series are arranged diagonally, which is a distinctive departure from the usual horizontal or vertical alignment. The position of the ultra-wide camera has changed, and the LED flash and microphone are located at the upper right and lower left corners, respectively.

Regarding the change in camera arrangement, PhoneArena evaluated it as a change aimed at helping the public easily identify the latest iPhone. PhoneArena explained, "It is becoming increasingly difficult to differentiate smartphones every year," and added, "Apple’s diagonal arrangement of the rear cameras is interpreted as a strategy to make it easy to distinguish who is holding the latest iPhone."