Chinese Vendors Release Functional iPhone 6 Clones Even Before It's Announced
The iPhone 6 may not actually exist yet, but that hasn't stopped certain Chinese clone manufacturers from releasing functional knock-offs based on supposedly leaked images and videos.
By Sadho Ram — 22 Jul 2014, 06:40 PM — Updated almost 10 years ago
While the elites are still waiting for Cook & Co. to officially announce the iPhone 6, it hasn't prevented Chinese vendors from launching their own "variants" of Apple's future device
Apple may not have confirmed the existence of its iPhone 6, expected in two screen-size variants (4.7-inch and 5.5-inch) later this year, however, this has not stopped certain Chinese clone handset makers to announce their own iPhone 6 versions even ahead of Apple.
ndtv.com
One of the first clones, the Wico i6 - as the device is named - is an imitation of the still-unannounced iPhone 6, is profiled by 86DIGI in a two-part hands-on video. WATCH:
The Wico i6 is quite detailed for a fake, with authentic-looking FCC labeling and the characteristic Apple branding. WATCH:
The phone also closely mimics the rumoured styling of the 4.7-inch iPhone 6 with a thin chassis that houses a side-mounted power button and elongated volume buttons.
macrumors.com
Wico isn't the only clone maker, however. Another company GooPhone that's notorious for its clones, having launched numerous "versions" of popular devices, is also in the line.
Chinese clone maker Goophone has also announced that it is preparing the Goophone i6 for release in August, ahead of Apple's expected September iPhone launch.
mashable.com
Designed based on leaked materials, the i6 is priced at USD159.99 for the 16 GB model. For comparison, the 16 GB iPhone 5S retailed for USD199 with contract and USD649 unlocked.
The design of the i6 and the expected design for the rumored iPhone 6 are very close: Both have fingerprint readers on the front, an auto-focusing camera in the rear and other design hallmarks borrowed from iPhones.
techshout.com
However, the i6 sports a image of a bumblebee on its back instead of Apple's classic logo, distinguishing itself from the iPhone's no-frills design. Goophone hasn't explained why it uses the bee as its logo, only remarking that it is "cute."
mashable.com
Unlike the Goophone i5S, the i6 is only offered in two colors, black and white. The champagne finish was a new direction for iPhone design when the 5S emerged and was copied by Goophone (and others). It's still unknown what colors Apple will offer for the iPhone 6.
macrumors.com