Featured image credit: PA
I can't say I'm all that into the whole Apple hysteria thing. I've never owned an Apple product and I simply do not understand these people that go nuts for the new releases when they're only ever so slightly better than the version that you overspent for just 12 months ago.
But what do I know? I own a phone made of cheese.
Anyway, with that in mind, I'm told that apparently Apple's release of the iPhone 7 later this year is going to be dull as hell. Minor improvements here and there but nothing to pitch a tent outside your local Apple store for.
However, next year will be the iPhone's tenth anniversary and people believe Apple have something special planned to mark the occasion.
There are rumours of OLED displays, an entirely re-designed body and wireless charging.
But the idea that's making the most people lick their lips is the idea of a Digital Crown but on an iPhone.
For those that don't know, a digital crown is Apple's answer to the crown found on a mechanical wristwatch. Historically you'd use it to set the date and time and to wind the mainspring but Apple Watch users can press the Digital Crown to return to the home screen,
Apple filed for the patent in 2014 for devices that look a fair bit like an iPhone or an iPad.
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Credit: US Patent Office
Here's what a 3D designer thinks a Digital Crown on iPhone would look like...
Also notice how the patent doesn't have a home button on it? Adding fuel to those flames.
Why this is such an improvement, only a tech geek could tell you. I unfortunately am not that person.
Words by George Pavlou
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