After the iPhone X created a buzz in the smartphone scene, all eyes are now on Apple's 2018 flagship model. For now, tech enthusiasts could only think of a few ways for the next iPhone to top the 2017 version. Although, there are speculations that the iPhone 2018 will get an incredible boost in internet connectivity via gigabit LTE feature.
While no one has an idea if the iPhone 2018 will be officially tagged as the iPhone 9 or iPhone XI (read as iPhone 11), recent reports have already talked about its specs and features. For one, KGI Securities' Ming-Chi Kuo claims that Apple is likely to use faster antenna modules for the company's 2018 iPhone lineup. As reported by 9to5Mac, the antenna upgrade will make way for gigabit LTE technology, offering boost to LTE upload and download speeds.
Kuo stated in the latest KGI Securities investor's note that the iPhone 2018 will be able to support four antenna modules or 4x4 MIMO standards. To note, this year's iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X only have two antennas or 2x2 MIMO, which only shows how next year's iPhone can greatly improve on internet speeds. Not only will the user connect to the internet with just a click, the iPhone 2018's 4x4 MIMO standards will ensure reliable and uninterrupted session.
To further explain the benefit of gigabit LTE technology in iPhone 2018, users can enjoy fast surfing with download rate as high as 1Gbps. According to T-Mobile, this speed is enough to download a two-hour movie within only 15 seconds. Although, the promised 1Gbps performance by gigabit LTE may not be experienced all the time, as the actual everyday speeds could go lower within 30-50 Mbps range.
Aside from gigabit LTE feature, Apple is reportedly working on 5G modems as well for future iPhones. Kuo predicts that at least three new iPhone models will be unveiled in 2018. These handsets will sport 6.5-inch OLED, 6.1-inch LCD panel, and 5.8-inch form factor being used by the iPhone X.
