Rumors Suggest iPhone 5 May Include New Apple 3D Photography Technology
Various Internet sources are speculating that the iPhone 5, release date unknown, may be built with Apple’s new 3D photography technology. PhotographyTalk reported about Apple’s 3D camera in a March 29 news story.
The new technology is based on new depth-detection sensors, such as LIDAR, RADAR and Laser that render stereo disparity maps to create 3D visuals.
The online report also states that the cameras featuring this 3D technology will be capable of facial recognition as well as facial gesturing recognition. Part of the impetus behind the development of Apple’s 3D imaging camera is the introduction of Apple’s Retina Display for the new iPad and other iOS devices. The advancement in display technology will make it possible to view any of the 3D images created with the camera.
Some of the speculation is based on the company that assembles Apple products supposedly hiring 20,000 factory workers.
Another Internet source reported in an April 22 story that the iPhone 5 with be even thinner and lighter than existing models. This may be possible with the use of “liquid metal,” which is cited in recent licensed patents. Apple may also be using in-cell touch panels from Sharp and Toshiba Mobile Display that are a major improvement compared to the current touch screen technology. These new in-cell touch panels are built without a layer between the multi-touch screen and the LCD display. The new panels will be less sensitive and affected when moving from one environment to another.
Other innovations that may be part of the iPhone 5 include a bigger screen, OLED display, LTE connectivity, the iWallet, advanced haptics, multi-player gaming and crack-proof glass.
The iPhone 5 is rumored for release during the second or third quarter of 2012.
Photo © 2012 Apple Inc.