An unreleased version of the famous iPhone X in gold color has leaked, thanks to a recently published paper by the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Apple filed for a gold version similar to the gold iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, but the model never made it to the market.
The 180-day confidentiality period for the photos has lapsed, offering a clear view of the gold iPhone X. The images show that the device has a rich gold stainless steel frame and a gold glass back. Although we will never know why Apple pulled out of this launch, it’s safe to say that there were production issues.
The images do suggest an LCD display, which is strange, to say the least, as the iPhone X uses an OLED panel. Although this is a minor difference, it could be a clue that perhaps the images are not of an iPhone X, but of the rumoured low-cost iPhone that will resemble the iPhone X, but comes with an LCD screen. But this certainly doesn’t explain the stainless steel band as the cheaper iPhone is supposed to come with an aluminum band and a single rear camera.
Apple Analyst Ming Chi-Kuo of KGI Securities surely anticipated a gold iPhone ahead of its September release. However, the analyst also noted at the time that some production issues were occurring.
The iPhone X released in September is currently available in silver and black colours. It wasn’t too long ago that rumors about a gold iPhone were heard. However, there is no indication that Apple is planning a gold iPhone release anytime soon. Although, in the ‘maybe’ column, Benjamin Geskin confidently claimed that a blush gold iPhone was in production; hence, new colors are already being whispered about.
Then again, this does play into a bigger narrative that the iPhone X will be cancelled in September. Unlike the previous models, Apple is not interested in selling the iPhone X at a reduced price, because it will clash with an all-new iPhone X SE at this lower price range.
Whatever the case is, the gold phones do look nice.