This year's iPhone might not be the iPhone 7. That's because next year is the 10th anniversary of the original iPhone, so don't expect a huge Apple redesign until 2017.
Let's triangulate a couple of decently-sourced rumors, shall we? On the one hand, we have KGI's Ming-Chi Kuo saying next year's iPhone will be an all-glass affair with an OLED display. On the other hand, we have Nikkei reporting Apple seems to be planning an earlier launch window for this year.
In IT Blogwatch, bloggers sort the rumo-wheat from the specu-chaff. Your humble blogwatcher curated these bloggy bits for your entertainment.
What’s the craic? Like some sort of horse, Benjamin Mayo neighs: [You're fired -Ed.]
KGI’s Ming-Chi Kuo...claims that the iPhone will be seeing a major redesign in 2017. ... The iPhone 7 for 2016 will be...breaking Apple’s tick-tock pattern of a...redesign every other generation.
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Kuo does not elaborate on how Apple will make [it] entirely out of glass. ... It’s currently unclear.
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[But it] leaves Apple’s 2016...refresh somewhat in question. ... It certainly looks like Apple’s next big refresh...will not come to light this year.
Ming-Chi Kuo again? Jack Purcher says he told you so—KGI Securities Reiterates Claim:
Last month we posted..."Apple may push the Design Envelope with a Curved Glass iPhone." [We] pointed out that Apple has a killer patent [for] a liquid metal based glass iPhone.
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It's further noted that [it has] an OLED display, something we knew way before. [But] it makes you wonder what great...will be coming to this year's iPhone 7. ... We're missing a piece of the puzzle.
Anything else? Neil "before Zod" Hughes drops the other rumor shoe, an OLED display:
Apple is also expected to adopt an AMOLED display. [It] has relied on LCD technology since it first launched.
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Although glass is slightly heavier than aluminum...the adoption of an AMOLED display will compensate. [Kuo] expects it to employ curved panels on both the front and back. [He] believes that switching to a glass back...will give a "feeling of freshness."
Another month, another Kuo'o'gram. Gordon Kelly eyerolls at this latest Apple Leak:
He’s at it again. ... According to Kuo, Apple will...abandon its ‘tick/tock’...upgrade pattern [for] the tenth anniversary of the iPhone.
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How much faith should we place in Kuo? ... In recent times the analyst has a near perfect track record. ... All of which does little to inspire excitement in the iPhone 7 this year.
Is this really a good idea? Wouldn't it delay 2016 upgrade revenue? So says misterpip:
If this is true, I'll be holding off on upgrading my 6...to get the OLED phone next year. Hopefully it will launch earlier than usual...for the 10th anniversary.
Wait a sec, though. Why assume this year's iPhone will launch in the Fall? Apple extends iPhone production cut:
Apple will continue its reduced production...in light of sluggish sales. ... Slow sales of the flagship iPhone...have forced Apple to adjust inventories...by about 30%.
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Some 1.5 billion smartphones are shipped [per] year, but...growth is slowing. ... However, should Apple...release its next flagship model earlier...parts production...could take off around late May.
You have been reading IT Blogwatch by Richi Jennings, who curates the best bloggy bits, finest forums, and weirdest websites… so you don’t have to. Catch the key commentary from around the Web every morning. Hatemail may be directed to @RiCHi or itbw@richi.uk. 
Opinions expressed may not represent those of Computerworld. Ask your doctor before reading. Your mileage may vary. E&OE.