Apple will cut key features from its upcoming 6.1-inch iPhone to reach a more affordable price tag, according to one reliable analyst.

The device, which is expected to look a lot like iPhone X, could cost as little as $700. But buyers will lose luxuries like a stainless steal frame, dual rear-facing cameras, and even 3D Touch.

Multiple reports have promised that Apple will launch three new iPhones this year. Alongside a refreshed iPhone X with a 5.8-inch OLED display, we’re expecting to see an iPhone X Plus with a 6.5-inch OLED display, and a more affordable iPhone with a 6.1-inch LCD display.

6.1-inch iPhone will cost as little as $700

The latest report from KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims the latter will cost between $700 and $800, making it as much as $300 cheaper than iPhone X. For that, users will likely get a very similar design — but a watered-down experience.

Kuo predicts that Apple will cut a number of features to make this iPhone more affordable, including dual rear-facing cameras and 3D Touch. He also expects the device to feature an aluminum frame, rather than a stainless steel one like that on iPhone X.

What’s more, both the 5.8- and 6.5-inch devices will reportedly pack 4GB of RAM, while the 6.1-inch option will pack just 3GB. However, all three models will have Face ID, according to an earlier rumor.

A cheaper iPhone will be a big seller

Despite the lack of big features, the 6.1-inch iPhone will be a big seller because of its price tag, Kuo says. Of the 80 million to 90 million iPhones that Kuo expects Apple to sell in the second half of 2018, “around 50 percent” will be the more affordable model.

That’s if Apple can make them quickly enough. Kuo also warns that development of the 6.1-inch iPhone is lagging behind that of the other two models. It could be easier to manufacture in large numbers because of its LCD display, however.

Kuo previously revealed that Apple could cease production of the iPhone X in mid-2018. He blames this on weaker-than-expected demand for the device, but adds that the new iPhones coming this fall will boost Apple shipments for 2018.

Source: cult of mac