WSJ: Apple to Launch Two Bigger-Screen iPhones in 2014

Following up its mid-2013 report, the Wall Street Journal claims Apple will indeed launch two new iPhones with bigger screens in the second half of the year, due to constant pressure from competitors offering smartphones with bigger displays. Oh, and it will discontinue the iPhone 5C, because of weaker-than-expected demand.

In case you haven’t heard, since the WSJ reported last year that Apple was testing two new display sizes, the rumour mill has been busy spilling information about the possible display sizes. Multiple reports suggested Apple would opt for a 4.7-inch display, while others said it would be a 4.8-inch display. That’s one model due this year.

The WSJ’s report reinforces a report that surfaced earlier claiming Apple would release an iPhone with a 5.7-inch display. While the new outlet doesn’t mention exact sizes, it does mention that one iPhone model will be larger that 4.5-inches, and the second, bigger than 5-inches.

The people said Apple plans an iPhone model with a screen larger than 4½ inches measured diagonally, and a second version with a display bigger than 5 inches. Until now, Apple’s largest phone has been the 4-inch display on the iPhone 5.

Both new models are expected to feature metal casings similar to what is used on the current iPhone 5S, with Apple expected to scrap the plastic exterior used in the iPhone 5C, these people said.

What’s worth mentioning here is that Apple has just successfully launched the iPhone 5s and 5c with the world’s biggest carrier, China Mobile. Just days before the official launch, reports surfaced that the Chinese smartphone market trend is for the bigger-screen devices, and that market is important for Apple’s growth. Is Apple feeling the push from its rivals towards an iPhablet?