Apple’s Upcoming 20th Anniversary iPhone: Early Patent Filing Reveals ‘Six-Sided Glass Enclosure’ and ‘Touchscreen Display’ Features

As Apple approaches the milestone of its 20th anniversary since the original iPhone launch, the anticipation surrounding the next iteration is palpable. Expected in 2027, this upcoming model promises to push the envelope, particularly in terms of design. Recent rumors suggest a shift from the traditional aluminum and stainless steel chassis to an innovative ‘all-glass’ exterior that aims for a flawless aesthetic with no visible cutouts. However, while this vision is alluring, realizing it poses significant manufacturing challenges. To secure an edge ahead of the official announcement, Apple has filed a patent revealing an intriguing concept for a completely glass-enclosed device. Let’s explore the implications of this patent in detail.

Patent Insights: A Potentially Seamless Glass Design for the Next iPhone

Recently submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), this patent indicates that Apple’s next-gen iPhone may feature an enclosure that appears ‘visually and tactilely seamless’.While this suggests a construction from a single continuous piece of glass, such a design might not be feasible for mass production. The inherent brittleness of a singular glass structure raises concerns regarding durability and manufacturability.

‘An electronic device includes a six-sided glass enclosure defining an interior volume and comprising a first glass member and a second glass member. The first glass member defines at least a portion of a first major side of the six-sided glass enclosure, at least a portion of a peripheral side of the six-sided glass enclosure, a first region along the peripheral side having a first thickness, and a second region along the peripheral side having a second thickness different from the first thickness.

The second glass member is attached to the first glass member and defines at least a portion of a second major side of the six-sided glass enclosure. The electronic device further includes a touchscreen display within the interior volume and positioned adjacent to at least a portion of each of the six sides of the six-sided glass enclosure. The second thickness may be greater than the first thickness, and the second region may define at least a portion of a corner region of the six-sided glass enclosure. The first glass member may further define an input region along an exterior surface of the peripheral side, having a surface texture that is different from an area surrounding the input region.’

Regardless of the practical challenges, the design concepts emerging from this patent highlight Apple’s commitment to innovation. The industry is eager to see what Apple will reveal, as they continue to set benchmarks for smartphone aesthetics and functionality. However, eager fans will need to exercise patience; the much-anticipated 20th-anniversary iPhone won’t debut until 2027.

For further details, check out the official patent documentation on the USPTO website.

For additional insights and images related to Apple’s patent filing, visit Wccftech.