It will definitely be an epic battle between Samsung and Apple for the top spot in the smartphone market, after the later releases its next-generation iPhone 8 towards the end of this year. Although it's too early to gauge the winner of this ultimate showdown, the placement of a particular feature on the new iPhone could give it a competitive edge over the Samsung Galaxy S8 as it failed to execute the same.
Yes, we are talking about the fingerprint sensor, which is now rumoured to be integrated into the display of the upcoming iPhone 8. According to a new report, Apple has finally found a solution to use a new optical fingerprint recognition technology, which will allow users to get their fingerprint scanned directly through the new iPhone's OLED screen.
In addition to the display-mounted Touch ID, the screen ratio on the iPhone 8 is also said to change from 16:9 on iPhone 7 to 18.5:9. The new flagship handset will also apparently have "invisible" Infrared sensors to unlock enhanced camera and augmented reality features, Economic Daily News reported, citing sources from Apple supplier Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).
If the report turns out to be true, the iPhone 8 will come without a physical home button like the recently launched Samsung Galaxy S8. However, the fingerprint sensor to enable authentication directly on the screen will surely be counted as an added advantage for the iPhone 8 over the Galaxy S8.
Many reviewers of the Galaxy S8 were disappointed with the placement of the fingerprint scanner, with some even saying that it was a big design flaw by Samsung. According to reports, the Galaxy S8's front bezels are so thin that Samsung had to shift the fingerprint sensor to the back.
The Cupertino-based tech giant was also reportedly struggling with the production of its in-house fingerprint sensor, leading many to speculate that the company would have to either remove Touch ID entirely from the iPhone 8 or place it on the back of the device like the Galaxy S8 does. There were also reports of Apple delaying production of the iPhone 8.
Therefore, a successful integration of the on-screen fingerprint recognition solution will bring relief to Apple fans waiting eagerly for the company's tenth anniversary edition iPhone.
Rumours are rife that the iPhone 8 will sport a redesigned steel and glass chassis and an edge-to-edge OLED display. The phone is also likely to carry a "premium" price, compared to the existing models.
