Apple scraps plans for an all-glass iPhone
Photo: CNET
Quick answer
Apple has halted development of its all-glass iPhone due to production hurdles: low yield rates and defects rendered the project unprofitable.
Analyst Edison Lee from Jefferies has reported that Apple has abandoned its plans for an all-glass iPhone. The primary reason cited is production challenges: the company failed to achieve sufficient defect-free units, rendering the project unprofitable.
Initially, the device was expected to launch in 2027 as a special edition to celebrate the iPhone’s 20th anniversary. Industry estimates suggested the price could exceed $2,000. A 2019 Apple patent filing described a smartphone with a hexagonal glass body, curved panels, and no cutouts.
According to the analyst, Apple had planned to extend the all-glass technology to future iPhone Pro and Pro Max models to boost their average selling price and profitability. However, these plans are now indefinitely on hold.
Common questions
- Why did Apple abandon its all-glass iPhone plans?
- Production challenges, including low yield rates and high defect rates, made the project economically unviable.
- When was the all-glass iPhone expected to launch?
- The device was initially planned for release in fall 2027 to coincide with the iPhone’s 20th anniversary.
- What features was the all-glass iPhone supposed to have?
- Patent filings suggested a seamless glass body with curved panels, no cutouts, and potential rear-display functionality.
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