KGI analyst’s Apple 2014 roadmap prediction says two iPhone and iWatch variants coming this year

KGI securities’ analyst Ming Chi Kuo who is well-known for accurate Apple predictions, has released the 2014 product roadmap for the company, reports MacRumors. However, some of these predictions have been floating around as rumours for some time now. Check out our iPhone 6 rumour round-up. In the roadmap, Kuo suggests that Apple will introduce several new devices this year including a low-cost iMac. The low-cost iMac will be seen during the second quarter.

In the third quarter, Apple is likely to launch the upgraded iPad Air and iPad mini. The next-generation iPad Air or iPad Air 2 is predicted to come with a Touch ID, an A8 processor, and an enhanced 8MP camera. The company could launch it before October. The new iPad Retina mini may come equipped with an A8 processor and Touch ID, but the device will retain the same form factor.

The iPads will be soon followed by an iWatch and a 4.7-inch iPhone. Kuo also predicts that the iWatch will be available in two sizes featuring 1.3-inch and 1.5-inch flexible AMOLED displays. The iWatch is believed to start shipping by the end of the third quarter and could feature biometric functionality. It could sport a fashionable look and work with the iPhone, iPad and Mac. One can also expect a sapphire cover lens, biometric recognition, an NFC chip, wireless charging and a 200mAh to 250mAh battery. It is predicted to be available at varying price points, with the most expensive version costing close to $1,000.

Later in the year, the company may also launch the upgraded Apple TV. One can expect an upgraded set top box with an App Store and motion control technology. It will most likely release a 12-inch slim Macbook and upgraded Retina Macbook Pros. The 12-inch ultrathin MacBook Air could come with a button-less touchpad and without a fan. It may also sport a high-res display. Kuo also believes that Apple is working on the long-time rumoured 12.9-inch iPad, but it may not be launched this year.

In the fourth quarter, the company will pull the wraps off its larger 5.5-inch iPhone, which is rumoured to be delayed due to problems with the display technology. As rumoured, Kuo predicts that the new iPhone 6 could be available in two display sizes: 4.7-inch with 1334×750 and 5.5-inches with 1920 x 1080 pixels of resolution. Both models are expected to come with an A8 processor, 1GB of RAM, LTPS display panels, optical image stabilization, and Touch ID. One can expect slimmer metal casings and support for NFC. Kuo predicts that only the 64GB 5.5-inch iPhone 6 could feature sapphire crystal displays.