Just when iPhone users were getting excited about the new iOS 12, Apple is spoiling them with another sweet addition a few months down the line.

According to a report by Mashable, Apple is dropping a new entry-level iPhone that’s expected to be released in September.

It’s being dubbed the ‘iPhone 9’, to slot in between the iPhone 8 and the iPhone X already on the market.

Here’s a video showing a concept rendering of the device, based on alleged schematics:

That looks mighty kiff.

So what will make the ‘iPhone 9’ different than its predecessors?

For starters, it’s speculated that it will be made cheaper and affordable for the masses:

Since this iPhone will be the new entry-level model, it should come in at a few hundred dollars less than the iPhone X2.

The well-connected (and usually eerily accurate) analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, now of TF International Securities, predicts the phone could cost between $600-700 [between R8 000 and R9 400] … that seems unusually low compared to the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, which start at $700 [R9 400] and $800 [over R10 700], respectively.

A lower price would no doubt make the new entry-level iPhone more affordable for many users who’ve yet to upgrade from their old devices.

That’s the definition of “game-changer” right there, folks.

What’s more, Kuo reckons that the device will come in different colours:

Per a report by Inverse, the appearance is likely to resemble the iPhone X from the front, have a larger display screen, and come equipped with face-detecting capabilities such as Face ID.

The ability to use two sim cards and the addition of a third camera lens is also rumoured to be included, although Mashable reckons the new iPhone will only rock two lenses.

Ah well, two is better than one.

Users can also expect the removal of 3D Touch and will have a faster performance thanks to the A12 bionic chip, which is reportedly 10% faster than the current A11 chip found in iPhones 8 and X.

Hmm, I like the sound of all of these features, and no doubt iPhone users looking for an upgrade will, too.

We’ll be eagerly awaiting its release, and keeping an eye on Digicape, South Africa’s largest independent Apple retailer, to see when it hits the shelves.

[sources:mashable&inverse]