Just when consumers think they finally have their new iPhone figured out, Apple changes it up again. Typically, these changes first begin as "rumors" - often accompanied by denials from Apple's top executives. However, in the case of newfound circulating rumors that the iPhone 6 may be released with sapphire glass displays, there has been some minor confirmation, thanks to Apple's chief executive officer himself, Tim Cook, who has stated that there has been a recent growth in the company's investment in sapphire glass-related products and technology.

Sapphire Glass

Here is what is now public knowledge when it comes to Apple's interest in sapphire glass for the iPhone 6. As of early November 2013, sapphire glass represents one of Apple's newest and most significant recent investments, to the tune of signed contract with GT Advanced Technologies in the amount of $578 million. The contract covers the production of sapphire glass cover displays. As of late November 2013, Apple announced its intention to invest an additional $10.5 billion in technology commonly associated with the use of sapphire glass.

Solar Cells

The move to replace traditional displays with sapphire glass in the iPhone 6, while not yet formally confirmed, also dovetails nicely with another new rumored Apple project - the replacement of traditional wireless and rechargeable batteries with solar cells. Sapphire glass is known to be a stable platform to support solar cells, and unconfirmed recent reports state that Apple may have invested as much as $68 million in solar cell coating equipment and solar cell laser cutters with German-based Manz AG.

Perhaps even more interesting, Apple's recent job postings have announced - nearly as conclusively as any formal admission ever could - that the company is looking to acquire technologists and engineers skilled in Thin Films and solar technology as well as manufacturing design.

How it Would Work

Analysts from Seek Alpha surmise that Apple plants to implant tiny solar cells right into the sapphire glass display face itself. The display would then become self-charging. To facilitate the ability of the solar cells to charge while encased within the sapphire glass will then require use of cutting-edge laser tools and laser technology as well as new vacuum coating systems. When analyzing what all of these individual pieces may be adding up to, a bigger picture begins to take shape. The iPhone 6 looks to push the technology and smart device envelope forward yet again, by installing inscribable solar cells into the sapphire glass itself. This both insulates the new iPhone against many common sources of damage and breakage, but also releases consumers from the need to lug around recharging devices.

As well, there are rumors that Apple will follow this same path for its next generation iPod touch, should it decide to release a new iPod touch. Using the power of the sun is eco-friendly, effortlessly reliable, and actually capable of extending the device's useful life as well. This reflects an overall interest by Apple executive management to build a more sustainable company in every way - including the newfound expanded use of solar power to run its Cupertino, CA, company headquarters.

With what is known, it certainly looks like Apple is poised to deliver yet another stunning upgrade to its uber-popular iPhone, iPod, and other device lines. The speculation can only serve to drive up consumer interest, publicity, and excitement about what the company is up to now!