iPhone 11’s Apple logo will shift for big new feature

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iPhone 11 Max leaning on fence post
No, it won't look like this.
Photo: Ian Fuchs/Cult of Mac

The Apple logo on the back of this year’s iPhone 11 lineup will shift to make way for a brand new feature, according to a new report.

The logo won’t disappear, but it will be perfectly centered for the first time in the iPhone’s history. The change will allow for a huge upgrade in wireless charging functionality.

Recent rumors (and some mockups) have suggested that the Apple logo on the back of 2019 iPhone models will move down to the center of the device, while the iPhone branding could disappear.

Some fans aren’t happy about the idea, perhaps because we’ve been so used to seeing the Apple logo in the same position for 11 years. But there’s a good reason for the change.

Reverse wireless charging on the way

Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, who corroborates claims the Apple logo will move, explains the change is being made to accommodate reverse wireless charging.

The new feature will give iPhone 11 owners the ability to charge other gadgets — such as AirPods and Apple Watch — by placing them down on the back of their iPhone.

This functionality has already made its way to the latest flagships from Samsung and proven itself to be useful. It is said to be even more important to Apple after the cancellation of AirPower.

But why does the Apple logo need to move?

All for ease of use

It’s not that the Apple logo will be in the way. It’s moving simply to show users where they need to place other devices to charge them wirelessly.

Unlike some wireless charging pads, which have multiple charging coils, the iPhone 11 will presumably have room for just one. That means you’ll need to be precise when placing other devices onto it.

If those devices aren’t in the correct position, they simply won’t charge. So aiming for the Apple logo, which will likely be in the center of the charging coil, makes sense.

Other changes for iPhone 11

Gurman also reaffirms that big camera improvements will be the main selling point of this year’s iPhone upgrade. Other changes will include a more robust design with better water-resistance.

It is believed Apple will use stronger glass to enhance shatter- and shock-resistance. The new iPhone lineup should also be able to survive under water for several hours — not just 30 minutes.

Apple will unveil the iPhone 11 lineup tomorrow, September 10. You’ll be able to watch the entire keynote online in real-time, and it will stream on YouTube for the first time this year.

You will also find all the news as it breaks right here on Cult of Mac.

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