Apple's iPhone 6 Sapphire screen is confirmed in it's 4.7 and 5.5-inch versions, sold with a premium price tag.
The iPhone 6 Sapphire screen is one of the ongoing rumors surrounding Apple's next flagship device. The tech giant finally confirms it'll release both the 4.7 and 5.5-inch models of the iPhone 6 using the scratch-resistant, durable display.
The confirmation is that Apple is considering the upgrade for its iPhone 6 release, though, if the company is able to acquire enough of the material needed for production before the fall release date. There's also the catch of a heftier price tag, according to a Wall Street Journal report:
"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."
It was previously rumored the scratch-proof iPhone 6 sapphire glass would be exclusive to the 5.5-inch version, or to high end models of the phone, but the Wall Street Journal confirmation is the first to report the upgrade is also available for the "standard" 4.7-inch model.
Apple currently uses Gorilla Glass in production, which costs roughly $3 to produce. The upgrade to a sapphire screen will increase production costs to up to $16, and the tech giant is still considering its feasibility.
The problem is really in the release date; the September release of the iPhone 6 means Apple is pressed for time anticipating the demand with production. Apple will overstretch if it releases a product which can't compensate for the demand, the price notwithstanding.
Apple has long-term gains to expect from the iPhone 6 Sapphire screen, with fewer warranty claims and fewer replacements. The company has previously invested in innovations which set its iPhone apart from the competition, including a self-designed 64-bit processor and a fingerprint scanner built into the iPhone 5s.
