Rumors of the next-generation iPhone 6 have been flying thick and fast in the technology industry for a few months. Previous reports suggested that Apple may launch the iPhone 6 with a bigger screen and new rumors hint that the production of the upcoming smartphone will start in July this year.

Smartphones are used extensively to watch videos and play games. To have a better viewing experience many smartphone makers offer bigger screens to attract customers. However, the iPhone has a relatively smaller screen, which many smartphone enthusiasts may not prefer.

All Apple smartphones launched in 2011 and prior sported a small 3.5-inch display. To compete with rivals smartphones with bigger screens, Apple launched the iPhone 5, which had a slightly bigger screen that measured  4 inches. In 2013, the company introduced the iPhone 5s and the iPhone 5s, which also featured a 4-inch screen. However, many market observers believe that 4-inch is still small and iPhone lovers want a bigger screed-sized iPhone.

A Bloomberg report cites people familiar with the matter and suggests that Apple may launch two new smartphones this year, which will have 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch screens.

"One model will have a 4.7-inch display, compared to the 4-inch screen of the current iPhone 5s, that may be available to ship to retailers around September," per Bloomberg. "A 5.5-inch version is also being prepared for manufacturing and may be available at the same time."  

The report also suggests that Apple suppliers in China will start production of the company's biggest ever smartphone from July this year.

Apple has a fair chunk of the smartphone market and loyal iPhone enthusiasts keenly wait for the launch of the latest smartphone every year. However, Android smartphones from Samsung, HTC, LG and more are slowly and steadily eating into Apple's share. Many market observers believe that Apple may be able to attract new customers if the company launches a bigger iPhone.

As the competition in the smartphone industry in intensifying Apple will not only hope to retain its market share but also increase it in the near term.

Along with bigger screens, the iPhone 6 is also believed to have curved display and enhanced sensors. The smartphone will also run on Apple latest iOS 8, which will bring in new features to the phone. A previous report suggests that Apple is looking for alternate ways to charge its iPhones, iPads and iPods. Apple could introduce solar charging capability in its future devices. Customers will hope that iPhone 6 is the first Apple device with solar charging capability.

Apple has not yet announced any details of the iPhone 6. However, the company is expected to launch the iPhone 6 and the rumored iWatch at an unannounced event in Oct. 2014.