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Chuong H Nguyen
Sapphire glass is once again being rumored for the unannounced but highly anticipated iPhone 6 and iWatch. Apple's $700 million investment in a sapphire manufacturing facility with partner GT Advanced Technologies is also once again being highlighted as part of the rationale for the move. However, not all versions of all devices might get the sapphire glass according to the Wall Street Journal:
Apple is considering using sapphire screens in more-expensive models of the two new, larger iPhones it plans to debut this fall, if it can get enough of the material, people familiar with the matter say. Some analysts expect Apple to charge more for the phones than previous new models, because of increased component costs.
In the past, we've heard that sapphire screens may be reserved for the larger, more premium 5.5-inch iPhone. Apple this year is rumored to be debuting two different iPhone models, one with a 4.7-inch display and a larger phablet-sized 5.5-inch model. This report suggests sapphire will be used in both screen sizes and Apple may use sapphire on the more expensive options, which typically come with more storage capacity. This may allow Apple to drive consumers in purchasing more expensive phone models.
It shouldn't be too surprising that Apple has grand plans for synthetic sapphire given its huge investment. The material is currently used on the iPhone 5 as the camera lens cover and also on the iPhone 5s on the home button to protect the Touch ID sensor given sapphire's resistance to scratches and damage.
What do you think of Apple's strategy? Given that expensive luxury watches already employ a sapphire glass screen, the product's use on an iWatch seems natural. Should Apple drive consumers to pay more for sapphire on more premium priced iPhone 6 models? Would you pay more for sapphire on your next iPhone?
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