First photo of supposed ‘iPhone 6’ front panel surfaces!

An alleged photo of what appears to be a front panel from Apple’s larger-screen iPhone 6 has surfaced on Chinese microblogging site Weibo

The image appears to show an individual in a factory-type setting holding up an iPhone 5s next to a much larger front panel that contains similar characteristics, including cutouts for a front-facing camera, ambient light sensor, ear speaker, and home button. However, the front panel also features a notably thinner bezel, which is consistent with previous rumors about the iPhone 6’s slimmer design.

While the validity of the image cannot be confirmed, the leak is the latest among a number of others recently. This past weekend, several photos reportedly showed the details on manufacturing molds for the iPhone 6, which was followed by a photo yesterday that hinted at a 4.7-inch display.

Last month, Japanese magazine MacFan published alleged design drawings of what appeared to be 4.7-inch and 5.6-inch iPhone 6 models, with a photo showing cases for the larger iPhone surfacing shortly afterward.

Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 6 later this year, which may ship in two different sizes: 4.7 inches and 5.5 inches. Recent reports have indicated that the smaller 4.7 inch version will ship first in the fall, while the larger version may ship later this year or in early 2015 due to manufacturing challenges.

Along with a larger screen, both models of the next-generation iPhone are rumored to include a new A8 processor, Touch ID fingerprint sensor and an upgraded camera featuring optical image stabilization. A report yesterday from Jefferies analyst Peter Misek also stated that Apple is negotiating with wireless carriers to raise the price of the iPhone 6 by $100.

Leaked plastic iPhone casing hints at a budget Apple smartphone

Chatter about a budget iPhone has increased in past months, and now a photo of a plastic iPhone casing has emerged online pouring even more fuel into that particular rumor fire.

The plastic shell has a glossy white finish and features all the necessary cuttings for the camera, LED flash, volume rocker and silent mode button. The source of the rumor says that the shell measures 0.4-0.6mm thick and is “likely” bigger than the iPhone 4/4S.

Rumors also have it that if indeed a cheaper iPhone exists, it features an 32nm A5 processor (like the one on the iPad mini) and has a 3.5″ Retina display. At the back, it’s said to feature the 5MP snapper of the iPhone 4.

I’d like to remind you that Phil Schiller dismissed the possibility of a cheaper iPhone, stating that “this will never be the future of Apple’s products“. There’s a real possibility that this is just a case for the iPhone 5S, so take this rumor with a pinch of salt (like you should always do with such unofficial leaks).