Although a late 2017 release for the iPhone 8 is possible, recent reports claim that the new smartphone will most likely arrive sometime next year.

Assuming Apple's annual schedule of announcement continues, the iPhone 8 will be unveiled in September of this year. However, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, who is known for accurate Apple predictions, speculates that the new smartphone might arrive a little later than September due to its ambitious design feature. It is believed that delays in the production of the device's glass organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen could push its launch back to November.

PC Advisor notes that things could be worse and fans might not even see an iPhone in 2017 at all. Deutsche Bank analysts say that a 2018 release would be highly possible since supply chain reports suggest that "key component shortages and technical challenges could delay the release of a high-end iPhone 8 device this fall." Although the wait could be longer, the delay gives Apple more time to source components that are unlike anything fans have seen before.

In terms of specifications and features, Apple will reportedly drop the home button and replace it with a new ultrasonic sensor. Compared to Touch ID, the ultrasonic sensor is unaffected by sweat, dirt, and grease. There is also no issue with too little or too much pressure that affects the fingerprint quality.

The device will have no bezel, which allows Apple to increase the screen size to around 5.8 inches. It is expected to run on iOS 11 software powered by an Apple A11 processor. Rumor has it that the new smartphone will have an improved facial recognition sensor and a laser sensor for gesture recognition.