Tech fanboys were expecting Apple’s iPhone 5 to be released in October 2011. Instead, Apple kept them waiting by releasing the iPhone 4S, an updated version of the iPhone 4. However, Apple didn’t scrap the iPhone 5 – it’s still in the makings, and hopeful rumors whispered around the water cooler indicate the release date could occur somewhere between June 2012 and November 2012.
While Apple has been very hush-hush about the possibility of an iPhone 5, a new phone was discovered in September 2011 in Apple’s inventory system with the name N94, rumored to be the new model of iPhone, according to an article published by SlashGear. This provided one of the first rumors that iPhone 5 is going to happen.
Features for the new iPhone
Apple scrapped plans to unveil the iPhone 5 in 2011, but they did release the iPhone 4S, which was a big improvement to the model. Tthe iPhone 5 isn’t rumored to be a modified version but rather a drastic new model to wow even the most stubborn tech geek. A new design typically proves to be coveted the most by tech-savvy crowds wanting the lasting trend.
Here is a list of features that might be included in the iPhone 5:
- A bigger screen. The iPhone 5 high-definition, 960×540-pixel touchscreen may be 4.2-4.6 inches. Expect the iPhone 5 to have better resolution than other iPhones, a standard improvement in Apple’s phone evolution of features.
- A new model, set to be on display during the summer of 2012, is said to incorporate the 4-inch (or larger) screen by lengthening and widening the phone a few inches. Some sources are hinting that Apple may keep the 3.5-inch screen, but it has yet to be confirmed.
- Universal remote control. According to Patently Apple, a patent application was filed by Apple for a configurable device that gathers data from components which utilize a remote control. The article indicates that the phone could be able to control entertainment systems, door locks, lighting and other automation systems. This feature would likely need to be integrated into the phone, rather than featured as an application for download.
- A quad-core processor. Other handsets are making quad-core debuts in 2012, so it’s likely Apple will follow suit.
- 4G/LTE access. Because the newest version of the iPad incorporates 4G speeds, the iPhone 5 will likely have 4G/LTE capabilities. To hit the 4G mark, broadband systems must be able to reach download speeds of at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps) up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). AT&T, Verizon,, T-Mobile and Sprint already offer 4G broadband to capable devices in the United States.
- No “home” button. While this makes some phone users cry “Yikes!”, Apple could ditch a home button in favor of allowing the user to take command with gesture controls.
- 64GB. The 64GB iPhone 4S did well in sales in comparison with the 32GB and 16GB versions, so the logical step would be to include the huge memory capacity into the iPhone 5.
- Fireproof. Apple has applied for a patent on halogen-free, flame retardant material. This means the iPhone 5, and other future products from Apple, may be fireproof.
- Micro-dock connector. This would allow for micro-USB connections.
