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Purported 'iPhone 6s' box suggests Apple will keep entry-level capacity at 16GB

Photo via Steve Hemmerstoffer.

A sticker claimed to be for the packaging for Apple's anticipated "iPhone 6s" shows a 16-gigabyte capacity, suggesting that Apple will stick with that memory level for its entry-level model.

Apple faced criticism last year for doubling the capacities on its mid- and high-range iPhone 6 series models, to 64 and 128 gigabytes, respectively, without upping the entry-level model to 32 gigabytes.

Critics complained —  and even filed lawsuits —  because they said the iOS 8 update took up such a large percentage of the capacity on their 16-gigabyte iPhone.

Friday's leak, first shared by Steve Hemmerstoffer, suggests that despite those complaints, Apple will in fact keep the entry-level storage of 16-gigabyte for the so-called "iPhone 6s." There was no sign of any "iPhone 6s Plus" capacity, but it would not be a surprise to see a 16-gigabyte base model for Apple's jumbo-sized phone as well.

Apple has made strides to address user complaints in iOS 9, most notably shrinking the space required to install software updates. For example, while the iOS 8 upgrade required 4.6 gigabytes of free space, iOS 9 will require just 1.3 gigabytes.

Apple will also include a new automatic installation option that will let iPhones and iPads update themselves at a convenient time for the user. Users will be able to select an "Install Later" option, and will be notified with a message after their phone has been updated.

All will be revealed at Apple's Sept. 9 event, where the company is expected to introduce not only its next-generation iPhones, but also a revamped Apple TV. The new "iPhone 6s" series is expected to be largely identical to the current iPhone 6 lineup, including design, appearance, pricing, and capacity levels.

Most upgrades for the handset are believed to come internally, with new pressure sensitive Force Touch input, a faster "A9" processor, higher-quality cameras, and a forward facing flash for selfies.