Eldar Murtazin from Mobile Review sent out a tweet a couple of weeks ago saying:
"Foxconn received order for next generation iphone"
Many consider his words golden and definitive. Considering the iphone refresh cycle is June to June, it is conceivable that his information is correct. Now what could the new device contain?
Many have said the downfall of the iphone is its speed when compared to the Motorola DROID so most insiders believe the new device will be powered by the new Cortex A9 dual-core processor. This is almost a given.
The next likely to be true rumor is related to the screen. Many believe Apple will move to some type of advanced screen (maybe OLED or AMOLED).
I heard there will be 6 versions of the new device :
- GSM - HSPA (2 versions)
- GMA- HSPA + (2 versions)
- Special China Model (2 versions)
Larger storage. At least 64GB but dare I wish for a 128GB version?
An improved built in camera. I believe this will likely be an auto-focus capable 5 MP Camera. I am hoping it will also be able to do HD (720p) video.
Everything else I have heard, seen or read has a 50/50 chance of being true or not.
One common wish is a revamp of the interface but many believe this is unlikely.
Another item I have heard is a camera on the front of the device to allow for video conferencing. This is technically possible and simple to implement but is this where apple wants to go?
With all the hoopla around Apple and Google, there are talks that Apple will replace the Maps application with something new coming out of their acquisition from Placebase. Many believe the customization Placebase allows is superior to Google Maps but we'll have to wait and see.
Non plug charging. We are seeing more and more touch based charging (think Palm Pre)... I am hoping Apple will adopt some type of standard non plug touch based charging scheme.
Conclusion
Steve is unpredictable and does not take defeat well. We all know he likes to one up the industry and with the competition from Android based phones, things have definitely gotten interesting. Although I prefer the experience the iPhone provides, Android devices (specifically the DROID) is pushing the boundaries of smartphones and will force Apple to continue innovating. Innovation is good for consumers.
I was about to replace my personal phone and was considering getting an iPhone 3GS but knowing the new version will be a "major upgrade", I have decided to wait until June. With Christmas around the corner, many carriers are offering sweet deals to entire consumers... My recommendation is wait. Whether you want an Android phone or iPhone, the new models are around the corner and will bring material changes to functionality.