PAYING FOR OVER $1000 DOLLARS FOR A SMARTPHONE IS NOT TOO SMART AN INVESTMENT FOR MOST OF US - THUS APPLE MAY HAVE FINALLY CAUGHT ON AS SAMSUNG HAS DONE ALREADY THAT SMARTPHONE IS AS ONLY SMART AT THE HANDS OF THE CUSTOMER - SO HAS APPLE INTELLIGENCE TO MAKE A LONG LASTING SMARTPHONE COME TO FRUITION OR IS THIS ANOTHER ICRAP IN THE MAKING- TIME WELL TELL

Apple is preparing to release a trio of new smartphones later this year: the largest iPhone ever, an upgraded handset the same size as the current iPhone X and a less expensive model with some of the flagship phone's key features.
With the new lineup, Apple wants to appeal to the growing number of consumers who crave the multitasking attributes of so-called phablets while also catering to those looking for a more more affordable version of the iPhone X, according to people familiar with the products.
Apple, which is already running production tests with suppliers, is expected to announce the new phones this autumn. The plans could still change, say the people, who requested anonymity to discuss internal planning.

Despite months of breathless hype, the iPhone X has not sold as well as expected since its debut last year. Apple sold 77.3 million iPhones in the final quarter of 2017, below analysts' projections of 80.2 million units.
Some consumers were turned off by the iPhone X's US$1,000 (S$1,300) price despite liking the design even if they wanted something more cutting-edge than the cheaper iPhone 8.
With its next lineup, Apple is seeking to rekindle sales by offering a model for everyone.


 http://www.straitstimes.com/tech/smartphones/apple-is-said-to-plan-giant-high-end-iphone-lower-priced-model