Apple Working on Upgraded TrueDepth Camera for 2019, Will Require Larger Batteries [Report]

Apple is planning an upgrade to its TrueDepth camera system in 2019 which will necessitate larger batteries, according to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

Apple capable of designing new system for large-capacity batteries: We believe the adoption of TrueDepth camera for 3D sensing in 2017-18 will create demand for larger-capacity batteries. From 2019, we predict iPhone may adopt upgraded 3D-sensing and AR-related functions, and it will consume more power, further increasing demand for large-capacity batteries. We believe Apple's key technologies, including semiconductor manufacturing processes, system-in-package (SIP), and substrate-like PCB (SLP), will create the required space for larger batteries.

Kuo has also predicted that Apple will improve iPhone X battery life next year by switching from a two-cell L-shaped battery to a one-cell L-shaped battery. This could provide up to 10% additional capacity.


Apple is expected to release three new iPhones with Face ID next year: a 6.5-inch OLED model, a 5.8-inch OLED model, and a 6.1-inch LCD model. Apple is still expected to use a two-cell design for the 6.5-inch OLED iPhone; however, it's larger size will support a 3300 to 3400 mAh battery.

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[via MacRumors]