32GB High End iPhone and a Low End Version in Works? [Archive]

MacRumors

Mar 31, 2009, 05:00 PM

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/03/31/32gb-high-end-iphone-and-a-low-end-version-in-works/)

Lazard Captial Markets analyst Daniel Amir believes (http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-10208071-37.html) that Apple is working on two new iPhones that will arrive in the coming months. These would include a high end 32GB iPhone with camera improvements as well as a low-end 3G version. Production for the devices would being in April and ramp up in May, with a release in June. [Amir] noted, however, that the low-end version may only be available in the fast-growing, emerging markets of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, while the high-end version is expected to make its way to North America and Europe.As with most analyst reports, "channel partner" checks are cited as the source.

A 32GB iPhone has been long expected and has been dependent on the release of suitably dense memory chips that could fit within the current iPhone casing. A couple of vendors have announced possible memory chips that would be available this year. As a whole, analysts have been notoriously unreliable sources, and this particular group has no notable track record. Still, a June release of the new iPhone is certainly expected. Now with WWDC's dates set for June (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/03/26/apple-announces-dates-for-wwdc-2009-june-8th-12th/), Apple has an appropriate venue to announce new products.

Article Link: 32GB High End iPhone and a Low End Version in Works? (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/03/31/32gb-high-end-iphone-and-a-low-end-version-in-works/)

yayaba

Mar 31, 2009, 05:01 PM

If it has a substantially better camera I'd consider upgrading from my 2G.

t0mat0

Mar 31, 2009, 05:03 PM

And what exactly is the difference from the current 3G iPhone, to the one being called a low end version?
Oh, wait:

The low-end version is expected to run on a 3G network, rather than on Wi-Fi

Riiight...

SwiftLives

Mar 31, 2009, 05:05 PM

sammich

Mar 31, 2009, 05:06 PM

So the new iPhone is going to be bigger and better? Who would've thought....

Small White Car

Mar 31, 2009, 05:06 PM

Has Apple ever released a product that was available in other countries and not the US?

I think the phone in China has no Wi-Fi and the one in Egypt has no GPS. The phones in Japan have Emoji while the others don't officially have it.

So, yes.

andrew0122

Mar 31, 2009, 05:06 PM

helical

Mar 31, 2009, 05:07 PM

Me and my wallet are ready and waiting.

June can't come soon enough. :)

InkMaster

Mar 31, 2009, 05:07 PM

Ugh!

32GB would be wonderful 2 years ago when my music library was smaller. These days, music + podcasts + apps + photos, I need 64GB! :(

Rojo

Mar 31, 2009, 05:07 PM

If it has a substantially better camera I'd consider upgrading from my 2G.

Same here. It's pretty much the ONLY reason I'll upgrade. No other hardware enhancements really interest me that much...

niuniu

Mar 31, 2009, 05:08 PM

If it has a substantially better camera I'd consider upgrading from my 2G.

Yeah, I don't get why Apple are so tentative about camera hardware. An iPhone with a Sony Ericsson quality camera and proper MMS would be a lovely thing..

=MuLti-CeLL=

Mar 31, 2009, 05:10 PM

Low end iPhone = 2,1

iPhone 3G Pro = 3,1

?

Maybe?

TuffLuffJimmy

Mar 31, 2009, 05:10 PM

I can't justify buying a new iPhone if the only improvements are the camera and capacity... but I'll probably end up getting it anyway. :(

Small White Car

Mar 31, 2009, 05:10 PM

Same here. It's pretty much the ONLY reason I'll upgrade. No other hardware enhancements really interest me that much...

What if the new phone has more system RAM and allows background apps while the old one does not?

(Not that I'm expecting this, I'm just trying to guess at other "must-have" items.)

SactoGuy18

Mar 31, 2009, 05:10 PM

This right now points to a 32 GB iPhone and a 64 GB iPod touch.

yamaduc

Mar 31, 2009, 05:10 PM

I'm sitting here with my EDGE/WIFI 4GB Version waiting to upgrade.

If they improve the hardware alot, say new processor and video chip, along with faster speeds I'm game.

sam10685

Mar 31, 2009, 05:11 PM

If it has a substantially better camera I'd consider upgrading from my 2G.

If it had a better anything, I'd consider upgrading from my 1th generation ipod touch.

H$R

Mar 31, 2009, 05:12 PM

Ugh!

32GB would be wonderful 2 years ago when my music library was smaller. These days, music + podcasts + apps + photos, I need 64GB! :(

I was thinking the same for quite some time. My first iPod was 40 gig. But after that I got used to the 8 gig Nano. So when I am finally going to buy me an iPhone this summer, I will be happy enough with 32 gig.

I am not really needing a better camera, though I think it has to have one in order to compete with other phones.

fliptastic

Mar 31, 2009, 05:15 PM

as usual, apple updates memory, makes a device better, etc. like clockwork. you could play the waiting game for the "next" version, or you could just pick up whatever comes out and know its going to be a kick a$$ device. i love apple. now, if my contract would allow me to be eligible for an upgrade!

gwangung

Mar 31, 2009, 05:15 PM

Yeah, I don't get why Apple are so tentative about camera hardware. An iPhone with a Sony Ericsson quality camera and proper MMS would be a lovely thing..

Far as I'm concerned, it's useless pixels/hardware. It's almost the same as the usual point and shoots. If I really want anything better, I'm headed for a SLR, and not bother with more pixels or a flash on an iPhone.

blackpond

Mar 31, 2009, 05:16 PM

I'm pretty sure Palm has the low end iPhone market all tied up. :rolleyes:

Akzel

Mar 31, 2009, 05:18 PM

The current iPhone model costs around US$800 in Brazil. And I'm yet to see a single iPhone in the streets, so I wouldn't qualify Brazil as a "fast emerging" market, iPhone-wise. :P

So, crippled, under-specced, over-priced new iPhone? "yay"

Ant1-Hero

Mar 31, 2009, 05:19 PM

Apple will present it as "The newest iPhone ever"

yamaduc

Mar 31, 2009, 05:20 PM

Just have to wait until June..

InkMaster

Mar 31, 2009, 05:20 PM

I was thinking the same for quite some time. My first iPod was 40 gig. But after that I got used to the 8 gig Nano. So when I am finally going to buy me an iPhone this summer, I will be happy enough with 32 gig.

I am not really needing a better camera, though I think it has to have one in order to compete with other phones.

Well yeah, right now I have a 8GB G1 Touch. and I just have all my media sorted via smart albums. While its usable, still sucks when you want to listen to a song only to find out it wasn't synced.

Atm I have 32GB of music, about 4GB of podcasts, a few gigs of audiobooks and 20 or so apps that I use which make up another 2-300MB. So yeah, 64GB would be sooooo nice :D

1Zach1

Mar 31, 2009, 05:24 PM

I hope by "camera improvements" they don't just mean cramming more megapixels into it and calling it better. I would also like to see an upgraded processor, RAM and better battery life (not "better battery life*" ;)).

gcliv

Mar 31, 2009, 05:29 PM

Verizon
5+mp camera

I'll be happy.

Please.

BTW, haters can skip the "5 year contract" and "GSM!=CDMA" posts. Let a guy dream.

Deefuzz

Mar 31, 2009, 05:32 PM

I just hope there is some sort of new iPhone this summer. Still rockin' my original, but I would love to see a hardware update bump so I can make the 3G jump.

yamaduc

Mar 31, 2009, 05:32 PM

Verizon is the ghey.
AT&T is the ghey.
Pretty much all of the US carriers stink.
I've had them all.

roland.g

Mar 31, 2009, 05:32 PM

With a lack of much great news this somehow becomes page 1 rather than page 2 material. as the article states, analysts are typically unreliable and yet the need to post this.

faisal

Mar 31, 2009, 05:33 PM

Yeah, I don't get why Apple are so tentative about camera hardware. An iPhone with a Sony Ericsson quality camera and proper MMS would be a lovely thing..

A decent camera would necessitate approximately doubling the thickness of the handset in order to accommodate the depth of lens needed. I'll also be surprised if people who care about a camera are willing to give up a side mounted physical shutter button (since the current scheme leads to all sorts of shaking). If they're willing to do that then they should invest in some sort of speed improvement like double-shutter CMOS zeroing, which would suddenly put them in the running for best camera phone out there. Also they should include a free pony.

Granted, if they do up the depth of the unit then they can also fit a lot more ram in the thing...

starcke

Mar 31, 2009, 05:33 PM

God I hope this comes out in June. My 1st gen just died on me this weekend... I'm rocking out a Blackjack 2 until the upgrade is released. It's a painful regression... :(

Tallest Skil

Mar 31, 2009, 05:34 PM

BTW, haters can skip the "5 year contract" and "GSM!=CDMA" posts. Let a guy dream.

The contract is only a rumor, but they'll never make a CDMA iPhone.

Also, if anyone says, "iPhone nano" at this point, they get to be the first ever on my ignore list. :p;)

cjm3113

Mar 31, 2009, 05:40 PM

A decent camera would necessitate approximately doubling the thickness of the handset in order to accommodate the depth of lens needed. I'll also be surprised if people who care about a camera are willing to give up a side mounted physical shutter button (since the current scheme leads to all sorts of shaking). If they're willing to do that then they should invest in some sort of speed improvement like double-shutter CMOS zeroing, which would suddenly put them in the running for best camera phone out there. Also they should include a free pony.

Granted, if they do up the depth of the unit then they can also fit a lot more ram in the thing...

I believe there are plenty of phones with better cameras that are no thicker than the iPhone. My girlfriend's enV2 comes to mind. Also, the shaking can be avoided because the picture is captured upon release.

realfx

Mar 31, 2009, 05:41 PM

The contract is only a rumor, but they'll never make a CDMA iPhone.

Also, if anyone says, "iPhone nano" at this point, they get to be the first ever on my ignore list. :p;)

Never huh, thats a long time.

Apple would sell more hardware and thats what Apple has always been about.

I'll Bite "iPhone Nano"

iphones4evry1

Mar 31, 2009, 05:41 PM

Randman

Mar 31, 2009, 05:44 PM

32gb and an improved camera. Video recording c'mon down.

Tallest Skil

Mar 31, 2009, 05:45 PM

Never huh, thats a long time.

And CDMA won't be around for a "long time".

It's being killed within the next five years.

Rojo

Mar 31, 2009, 05:47 PM

What if the new phone has more system RAM and allows background apps while the old one does not?

(Not that I'm expecting this, I'm just trying to guess at other "must-have" items.)

It would be nice, sure. Just like more storage is always nice. However, neither is really a "must-have" for me. (Nor is 3G, GPS or better speakers like the current version). I can get by fine without any of that. But I REALLY want an enhanced camera for the next iPhone. I'm currently carrying around an entirely separate camera for better-quality shots, but I would love it if I could just carry around the iPhone. I don't need super-advanced quality...just a little better than what it is now.

plumbingandtech

Mar 31, 2009, 05:53 PM

Why do they keep talking about the cost and density of flash memory? I just bought a 16GB Sandisk USB flash drive at Office Depot yesterday for $39.99. Does the 16GB iPhone really still cost $100 more than the 8GB iPhone? By today (March 2009), they need to stop talking about expense and size of flash memory and start putting it in everything, including laptop computers.

Look at the height of that device (taller then an iPhone)
and the R/W speed of that device?
and the R/W cycle life?
can it handle video? (for the rumor video upgrade in the June iphone)
can it handle many hours of use per day?
what is the heat dissipation?
..
..
...

life is complicated. so are answers.

Eraserhead

Mar 31, 2009, 05:53 PM

[Amir] noted, however, that the low-end version may only be available in the fast-growing, emerging markets of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, while the high-end version is expected to make its way to North America and Europe.

Firstly - the similarities between the BRIC countries are practically non-existent, describing those countries together completely fails to understand them - and there are other countries which are also developing fast where the iPhone might ship. For example China is by far the most developed of the three.

If he doesn't understand this, then really how can he really have any idea about what might happen.

I think the phone in China has no Wi-Fi

The iPhone isn't (legally) shipping in China yet ;).

omegaphil6

Mar 31, 2009, 05:54 PM

Verizon is the ghey.
AT&T is the ghey.
Pretty much all of the US carriers stink.
I've had them all.

...maybe the problem is you????..,maybe:):rolleyes:

newConvert

Mar 31, 2009, 05:54 PM

since, I dont have one yet, any upgrades are welcome, but the only thing that I *really* want is 32gigs, that seems fairly likely at this point... This is coming from somone with only a 4gig 1gen nano. It'll seem like I have infinite space with 32gigs.

niuniu

Mar 31, 2009, 05:55 PM

A decent camera would necessitate approximately doubling the thickness of the handset in order to accommodate the depth of lens needed. I'll also be surprised if people who care about a camera are willing to give up a side mounted physical shutter button (since the current scheme leads to all sorts of shaking). If they're willing to do that then they should invest in some sort of speed improvement like double-shutter CMOS zeroing, which would suddenly put them in the running for best camera phone out there. Also they should include a free pony.

Granted, if they do up the depth of the unit then they can also fit a lot more ram in the thing...

You just made that up. The iPhone is 12.3mm yet the Sony T series cameras are only 15.1 mm complete with 12 megapixel..

Lucky A

Mar 31, 2009, 05:58 PM

low-end version may only be available in the fast-growing, emerging markets of Brazil, Russia, India, and China

I am not sure of other BRIC countries, but I don't think a low-end iPhone will fly in Russia.Half of iPhone's functionality does not work in Russia, so people are mostly buying'em as a luxury/status item. By the way, the popularity of the current iPhone 3G in Russia went way down for the same reason when it became widely available from local carriers.

=MuLti-CeLL=

Mar 31, 2009, 06:00 PM

What if the new phone has more system RAM

Yes, please more RAM. :)

TuffLuffJimmy

Mar 31, 2009, 06:00 PM

You just made that up. The iPhone is 12.3mm yet the Sony T series cameras are only 15.1 mm complete with 12 megapixel..

Oh! another person holding tight to the megapixel myth.

macFanDave

Mar 31, 2009, 06:00 PM

and I had the 8GB 2G. The camera is conspicuously bad -- it doesn't fit the quality of the rest of the phone. It's like buying a Lexus with an 8-track player in it. And the 8-track player eats your Boston tapes! "One of these things is not like the other. . ."

I would be happy with an 8GB version of the new iPhone if, indeed, the camera is significantly better. If that dream machine ever came out, I'd demand that they'd swap me a new clear-eyed iPhone for ol' Mad-Eye.

Mintin8

Mar 31, 2009, 06:01 PM

Whats up with all the fake rumours about cameras Lol?

Eraserhead

Mar 31, 2009, 06:03 PM

I am not sure of other BRIC countries, but I don't think a low-end iPhone will fly in Russia.

Given they are all different, I'd expect the response to a legal low-end iPhone to be different. That is unless its not actually going to sell well anywhere.

niuniu

Mar 31, 2009, 06:09 PM

Oh! another person holding tight to the megapixel myth.

What do you mean? We were talking about lens sizes..

faisal

Mar 31, 2009, 06:11 PM

You just made that up. The iPhone is 12.3mm yet the Sony T series cameras are only 15.1 mm complete with 12 megapixel..

The SE is 25% thicker everywhere than the iPhone is at its thickest part, but about twice as thick as where the lens sits in the iPhone.

I suppose Apple could cut that requirement a bit by remounting the camera in the center of the body.

meagain

Mar 31, 2009, 06:12 PM

I want a front facing cam for chatting.

niuniu

Mar 31, 2009, 06:17 PM

I want a front facing cam for chatting.

Yeah, that'd be great too. Definitely want to see that. Skype video messaging on the iPhone over the 3G network.. that's something :)

viccles

Mar 31, 2009, 06:18 PM

Gets $$$ ready. Bring it on (as long as the battery life is improved)

faisal

Mar 31, 2009, 06:19 PM

You just made that up. The iPhone is 12.3mm yet the Sony T series cameras are only 15.1 mm complete with 12 megapixel..

Also do you mean the Idou? IIRC right now SE's highest-density model is the C905a, 8.1 mhz, ~17mm.

To another poster's point: yes, MP is about as useful a gauge as MHz. It's useful if you have the optics to match, and if your sensor is actually decent, but if you don't then you just get a very precise blurry mess.

TuffLuffJimmy

Mar 31, 2009, 06:25 PM

What do you mean? We were talking about lens sizes..

If the sensor isn't any bigger, and the iPhone remains the same thickness, while having 12megapixel then you're going to be taking some grainy, ugly pictures.

devinci99

Mar 31, 2009, 06:27 PM

crazedbytheheat

Mar 31, 2009, 06:32 PM

=MuLti-CeLL=

Mar 31, 2009, 06:39 PM

With a lack of much great news this somehow becomes page 1 rather than page 2 material. as the article states, analysts are typically unreliable and yet the need to post this.

Yea, I was wondering that myself, seeing as this article apparently flew under the radar yesterday...

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/09/03/30/rbc_says_iphone_3g_pro_wont_boost_iphone_momentum.html

"In a report to clients Monday, analyst Mike Abramsky laid out some pretty obvious predictions for the future of Apple's smartphone business. Specifically, he believes the company "will announce an updated iPhone 3G 'Pro'" at its annual developers conference slated for June 8-12, with a release to follow in July.

Among his feature predictions for the new model is a new 3.2 megapixel camera, better battery life for video playback, "a faster 3G chipset (HSUPA vs current HSDPA), improved graphics processor, video recording, more memory (16GB/32GB)" and an enclosure that's one-tenth of a millimeter thinner than the one employed by the iPhone 3G."

How is one analyst any different than the next one?

In a way, aren't we all analyst here? :D

The iPhone isn't (legally) shipping in China yet ;).

And according to this, it may not be shipping for quite awhile...

http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/31/china-unicom-still-not-confirmed-as-chinese-iphone-provider/

"Remember how last week China Unicom brazenly threw up product images for the iPhone and a few other smartphones, implying that in the very near future it would be providing service to them? Well, funny story: turns out the company's chairman, Chang Xiaobing, is now saying negotiations are actually still ongoing with Apple and that the two have a good bit of wheeling and dealing left to do. What could they possibly still be discussing? According to Barron's, the debates focus on two primary issues: a Chinese law banning WiFi use in mobile phones; and Unicom's insistence on installing its own software on the iPhone, including some sort of *gasp* non-iTunes media player. How long now until these issues are resolved? Barron's is citing research firm Wedge Partners, who indicates it may not be until the end of the year. Better stick with those gray-market imports, folks."

Yeah, that'd be great too. Definitely want to see that. Skype video messaging on the iPhone over the 3G network.. that's something :)

Don't count it out just yet!...

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/09/03/30/skype_for_iphone_to_hit_the_app_store_on_tuesday.html

"The No. 1 request we get from customers is to make Skype available on iPhone," he said. "There's a pent-up demand." Durchslag added that a version of Skype for the iPhone with video features is also under consideration, though concerns over user interaction with other applications on the handset remain.

"We're considering video carefully but we have a really high bar on the quality," he said. "If we do it we will have to do it incredibly well."

Mintin8

Mar 31, 2009, 06:43 PM

"We're considering video carefully but we have a really high bar on the quality," he said. "If we do it we will have to do it incredibly well."

They better do it incredibly well!

t0mat0

Mar 31, 2009, 06:50 PM

So - will the less Pro version get the size reduction from the size reduction from the RAM, but only be 16GB and be more in shape with the Touch, to leave a similar shaped v3 32GB iPhone ("Pro")?
Would be interesting to see how much GB they've bought, divide by 16/32...

Similar shape, more added, vs smaller, same or similar added?

m-dogg

Mar 31, 2009, 07:08 PM

...waiting patiently for 32 GB...

InkMaster

Mar 31, 2009, 07:11 PM

Yeah, that'd be great too. Definitely want to see that. Skype video messaging on the iPhone over the 3G network.. that's something :)

Yes. Right up to the point where AT&T's ****** network falls to it's knees after 6 people start video chatting around the same tower.

=MuLti-CeLL=

Mar 31, 2009, 07:29 PM

Yes. Right up to the point where AT&T's ****** network falls to it's knees after 6 people start video chatting around the same tower.

Who says it needs to be a feature set to run on the network? I'd be cool with wifi only tbh. Yea, I know, battery = 3 minutes. :D

The Phazer

Mar 31, 2009, 07:33 PM

The SE is 25% larger thicker everywhere than the iPhone is at its thickest part, but about twice as thick as where the lens sits in the iPhone.

Err... no it isn't. It's all of 2.5mm thicker, and has the screen on the other side whereas the iPhone places it's camera in the housing above the screen.

The camera assembly in the SE is *thinner* than the iPhone one if you disassemble both devices.

Phazer

danbob

Mar 31, 2009, 07:42 PM

Never huh, thats a long time.

Apple would sell more hardware and thats what Apple has always been about.

I'll Bite "iPhone Nano"

Yeah, because making something for a dying market so they can probably sell thousands, but not tens of thousands, of handsets makes sense. Or they could just stick with the GSM version and sell millions.

CDMA is going the way of the Dodo, and in many parts of the world CDMA is already gone or never was in the first place. GSM is the larger and smart market, and Apple have been playing it smart.

Danbob.

sagnier

Mar 31, 2009, 07:59 PM

Ugh!

32GB would be wonderful 2 years ago when my music library was smaller. These days, music + podcasts + apps + photos, I need 64GB! :(

just buy two of them.

Porco

Mar 31, 2009, 08:04 PM

As a highly-paid analyst*, I have to tell you all the shocking news (brace yourself for the impact of these startling revelations):

(Whispers) The next iPhone is likely to be better than the last one. And might have more memory!!

Please don't go bragging to all your friends just because you have this inside insight into the complicated world of finance and technology though.

*may not be strictly true, but an analyst told be I might be one someday though. And it came as a revelation. Then he pointed out that grass is green and the sky is blue. And it turns out he was right: the man is a prescient genius.

:rolleyes:

Bye Bye Baby

Mar 31, 2009, 08:10 PM

Me asks why?

fleshman03

Mar 31, 2009, 08:21 PM

Ugh!

32GB would be wonderful 2 years ago when my music library was smaller. These days, music + podcasts + apps + photos, I need 64GB! :(

Agreed. There are some decent devolopments:

From me in another thread: (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=7326655#post7326655)

I'd like to have some decent music storage. I also often have an hour or two that I need to kill. As such, I'd like to be able to hold some extra music+video+apps.

Now onto the news. I found these two articles. The first is from this week. The second is from August.

Link (http://www.electronista.com/articles/09/02/10/sandisk.x4.flash.tech/)

As four of these chips are often stacked together in a single package, the technology potentially doubles the amount of storage available on a high-end flash memory die to 64GB but should remain small thanks to SanDisk's more recent 43 nanometer manufacturing process. Toshiba only just started making 32GB packages this past fall.
Link (http://www.electronista.com/articles/09/02/10/sandisk.x4.flash.tech/)

Extra bit from cNet (http://news.cnet.com/8301-13924_3-10160085-64.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-20):

"It is a 64-gigabit single die (chip), which is 8GB (per die), the highest capacity point in the industry," said Khandker Quader, senior vice president, memory technology & product development, SanDisk, in a phone interview Monday.

Link (http://www.electronista.com/articles/08/08/06/toshiba.32gb.flash/)

The combined storage is explicitly intended for cellphones, portable media players, video cameras, and other devices where a large amount of storage is necessary in one package. Toshiba doesn't name individual customers, but is a key supplier of Apple and through the design would enable a 32GB iPhone as well as a 64GB iPod touch. Toshiba also produces its own electronics, including Gigabeat media players, and frequently sells its memory for competitors and manufacturers of MMC and SD cards.

Interesting at the very least...

twoodcc

Mar 31, 2009, 08:24 PM

i'll believe it when i see it. how many times have we seen rumors like this?

though if this does happen, it won't be before june

PsyD4Me

Mar 31, 2009, 08:35 PM

So wait a minute, is this the NEW IPhone coming out in the summer with 3.0 or is it a final push to sell more 3G phones before the new one comes out?

afurry13

Mar 31, 2009, 08:41 PM

I can fit all my music on a 8gb nano... so ya, 32gb will be plenty for me.

paola105

Mar 31, 2009, 08:45 PM

And how much would this 32gb version cost? It cant be more than 400 or 500...
I hope not.

Mackan

Mar 31, 2009, 09:13 PM

Could see this coming. The "iPhone Pro" and the normal iPhone. In order to get the new MMS/AD2P/improved camera or something else that most many people want, you would have to buy the iPhone Pro, also paying a lot for more memory or other stuff you don't really need. Just look how Apple is doing the MacBook differentiation now. Have to pay big bucks for the middle model just to get backlit keyboard, for example. This will stink, that is for sure.

DELLsFan

Mar 31, 2009, 09:42 PM

Aw crap ... Just bought my iPhone a couple months ago. How long do I need to wait before I qualify for special pricing on an upgrade? I live in CT / USA.

:D

B2k1977

Mar 31, 2009, 10:18 PM

Verizon
5+mp camera

I'll be happy.

Please.

BTW, haters can skip the "5 year contract" and "GSM!=CDMA" posts. Let a guy dream.

Haha awesome. I'm rollin' with this dude here.

I don't care much about the camera, allthough I suppose if it were better I would use it lol and I'd like more storage please, thanks steve. lol

Michael CM1

Mar 31, 2009, 10:28 PM

Jesus Christ, who proofs these things before repopulating the info?

As I figured out about 10 minutes after reading it this morning, the writer has no clue what she's talking about.

"The low-end version is expected to run on a 3G network, rather than on Wi-Fi ..."

The writer just has no clue what she's talking about. The flippin' phone DOESN'T RUN ON WI-FI. I'm only guessing she means EDGE because that is the only way the sentence makes any sense. Shoot, she may have meant runs on EDGE instead of 3G.

Anyway, after that I couldn't really find much reliable. It's even worse than the lady in the Microsoft ad that goes to "The Mac Store" to buy a computer.

TuffLuffJimmy

Mar 31, 2009, 10:28 PM

Aw crap ... Just bought my iPhone a couple months ago. How long do I need to wait before I qualify for special pricing on an upgrade? I live in CT / USA.

:D

Two years. As per your contract. You got into a contract without knowing the terms?

jouster

Mar 31, 2009, 10:54 PM

A decent camera would necessitate approximately doubling the thickness of the handset in order to accommodate the depth of lens needed.

[...]

Granted, if they do up the depth of the unit then they can also fit a lot more ram in the thing...

Not necessarily. The sensor can be mounted perpendicular to the lens, and the light path can be diverted by a mirror. I think some point and shoots do this now.

If the sensor isn't any bigger, and the iPhone remains the same thickness, while having 12megapixel then you're going to be taking some grainy, ugly pictures.

Instead of the grainy, ugly 2MP pictures currently being taken.

Michael CM1

Mar 31, 2009, 10:55 PM

Two years. As per your contract. You got into a contract without knowing the terms?

You'd think almost every American would know that nearly every cell phone rate seen advertised is with a two-year contract. You also think people would realize there isn't some special magical Apple deal that you get for buying an iPhone. They're cutting $400 off the price if we agree to two years of service. AT&T doesn't do this out of kindness, they do it to make money.

Dawgson

Mar 31, 2009, 11:09 PM

Not necessarily. The sensor can be mounted perpendicular to the lens, and the light path can be diverted by a mirror. I think some point and shoots do this now.

Instead of the grainy, ugly 2MP pictures currently being taken.

A grainy, ugly 2MP picture takes up a lot less space.

As other people have said: The lens and the CCD sensor are key. Otherwise you're just creating MBs of Noise.

http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/digital-camera-sensor-size.htm

enigmatut

Mar 31, 2009, 11:25 PM

You'd think almost every American would know that nearly every cell phone rate seen advertised is with a two-year contract. You also think people would realize there isn't some special magical Apple deal that you get for buying an iPhone. They're cutting $400 off the price if we agree to two years of service. AT&T doesn't do this out of kindness, they do it to make money.

Well, technically we've not yet seen the "upgrade FROM iPhone 3G" path. Apple may sweet-talk AT&T into some sort of upgrade path for existing iPhone users (of any iPhone model). But that aside, yes: 2 years is pretty much the standard for "upgrade pricing" (since it's when your contract commitment runs out).

BTW

Mar 31, 2009, 11:37 PM

If it has a substantially better camera I'd consider upgrading from my 2G.

And a light like the Blackberries that can be used as a flash or in constant "on" mode for recording video. The Blackberries have nice lights. :D

SandynJosh

Mar 31, 2009, 11:41 PM

AT&T doesn't do this out of kindness, they do it to make money.

No, no, no! I read the contract and it says explicitly that their only motive is kindness. :rolleyes:

faisal

Mar 31, 2009, 11:56 PM

Err... no it isn't. It's all of 2.5mm thicker, and has the screen on the other side whereas the iPhone places it's camera in the housing above the screen.

iphone: 12.3 mm
Idou: 15mm
2.7/12.3 = 22%

Fair enough, it's not 25% thicker, it's... 22% thicker.

Either way, I hope an iPhone has a non-joke camera soon.

faisal

Mar 31, 2009, 11:59 PM

Not necessarily. The sensor can be mounted perpendicular to the lens, and the light path can be diverted by a mirror. I think some point and shoots do this now.

On that note, I've wondered why they don't mount the lens along the edge of the phone rather than in the face -- it seems that would solve the depth problems. You'd lose the screen as faux-sight, but you could put in a real one.

[QUOTE=jouster;7385320]Instead of the grainy, ugly 2MP pictures currently being taken.

Yeah, just think how excited we'll be to spend more money for the same grainy ugly pictures.

eastercat

Apr 1, 2009, 12:07 AM

Also they should include a free pony.
I always expect a pony when I buy my iPhone. :D
Seriously speaking, I won't be upgrading this year. 32 GB is not a compelling enough reason. Nor would a better camera (with better lens, etc) do it for me. Maybe when it's up to 64 or 128 GB.
It's hard to say if the new phone will be offered to current 3G customers for less than the unsubsidized $599/$699, but that would be nice if they did. However, I wouldn't hold my breath.

TuffLuffJimmy

Apr 1, 2009, 12:20 AM

Instead of the grainy, ugly 2MP pictures currently being taken.

So could you imagine if they just upped the megapixel? You probably wouldn't be able to tell what it was a picture of and then you would have a big photo file size.

Hackerman

Apr 1, 2009, 12:26 AM

I will only be upgrading my 3G if theres major changes, if its minor like more storage and better camera i will be staying put.

iphones4evry1

Apr 1, 2009, 12:37 AM

I'll also be surprised if people who care about a camera are willing to give up a side mounted physical shutter button (since the current scheme leads to all sorts of shaking).

A physical button on the side for the camera (like a real camera) would be EXCELLENT for the iPhone!!! :D:D:D

DiamondMac

Apr 1, 2009, 01:29 AM

I will only be upgrading my 3G if theres major changes, if its minor like more storage and better camera i will be staying put.

Agreed but the camera would actually be enough to get me to upgrade

Sehnsucht

Apr 1, 2009, 01:34 AM

I can't wait for the new iPhone. I'm still rockin' an 8gb 2g.

If the rumors are true about the faster 3g this this is going to be awesome.

I really like this concept of the new release:
http://www.dotdosh.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/iphone4g.png

Just not sure about the silence switch. . . ? But I do really like the placement of the camera.

That would be closer to the third-gen iPod touch probably coming in September '09. That design is way too freaking thin for any (currently existing) cellular hardware to fit inside. Plus, it's all metal. There would have to be plastic somewhere for better signal reception. But ehhh it looks okay. ;)

P.S.

A white, 64GB iPod touch = utter sex. I would buy one on release day. :D

1Zach1

Apr 1, 2009, 01:51 AM

Micro 4/3rds, it's the only good solution! :D ;)

SuperMacMan

Apr 1, 2009, 02:28 AM

scottness

Apr 1, 2009, 05:44 AM

All I want are background apps. Just give me background apps!:mad:

sushi

Apr 1, 2009, 05:56 AM

Has Apple ever released a product that was available in other countries and not the US?
If memory serves, in the past Apple released some computer models only in Japan and not in the US.

This right now points to a 32 GB iPhone and a 64 GB iPod touch.
If the current architecture remains constant, then the touch will have 2x the memory of the iPhone. This is because the touch has two memory slots and the iPhone has one.

A physical button on the side for the camera (like a real camera) would be EXCELLENT for the iPhone!!! :D:D:D
That would be a good idea.

rdlink

Apr 1, 2009, 06:40 AM

Any iPhone that comes with an AT&T contract fastened to it is "low-end."

diamond.g

Apr 1, 2009, 06:58 AM

No one has been speculating on the price point though. Very interesting...

Dagless

Apr 1, 2009, 07:14 AM

Well a 32gb model is definitely the next step, and one that I think I'll hold out for (so it will at least hold all my music).

scottness

Apr 1, 2009, 07:19 AM

No one has been speculating on the price point though. Very interesting...

Nobody cares. They'll sell their kids to get one. :D

I think it'll stay within $100 of the current 16GB... just a guess. I need to know specs vs. cost to decide.

jouster

Apr 1, 2009, 07:29 AM

A grainy, ugly 2MP picture takes up a lot less space.

As other people have said: The lens and the CCD sensor are key. Otherwise you're just creating MBs of Noise.

http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/digital-camera-sensor-size.htm

I'm aware of that. I'm arguing against a needless boost in MP. Though I'm not sure why, since I basically never use the camera.

scottness

Apr 1, 2009, 07:31 AM

I'm aware of that. I'm arguing against a needless boost in MP. Though I'm not sure why, since I basically never use the camera.

yeah, keep the cost down.

iPaf

Apr 1, 2009, 10:05 AM

I want a front facing cam for chatting.

Yeah but how would you take pictures?

Don't tell me with your Nikon! :P

jday

Apr 1, 2009, 10:05 AM

For me, I have a 1G iPhone and my chrome is all scratched up, I would like to see an all glass screen. That much like the new macbooks. I think that that feature would make it look slick and would keep it looking good. I realize that it would still scratch, but spend 10 dollars and get a protective film put on it. This I think would also cut down on weight, and size.

snowleopard48

Apr 1, 2009, 10:12 AM

Ok. Forget the better camera!
Have you ever pulled apart a digital camera? How do you suppose apple can fit all that in some thing 10mm or whatever size wide?:eek:

jday

Apr 1, 2009, 10:17 AM

well... have you ever pulled apart a laptop. How does Apple fit that in a Macbook Air? Or an iPod to an Ipod Nano? They can do it, im sure of that...

TuffLuffJimmy

Apr 1, 2009, 10:20 AM

well... have you ever pulled apart a laptop. How does Apple fit that in a Macbook Air? Or an iPod to an Ipod Nano? They can do it, im sure of that...

Yeah! Screw the laws of physics, Apple can cram a bigger lens in a space that can't be occupied by it, and a larger sensor in a smaller spot. Even though it's physically impossible Apple could do it. After all they used smaller, slower parts in the Macbook Air; why wouldn't that also work with the iPhone?

Dawgson

Apr 1, 2009, 10:58 AM

I'm aware of that. I'm arguing against a needless boost in MP. Though I'm not sure why, since I basically never use the camera.

I agree with you then -- I think I misinterpreted your previous post. :o

gcliv

Apr 1, 2009, 11:23 AM

OMFG!!

Why are you lot talking about a CDMA or GSM iPhone?!?!?!?!?!?!? Why go BACKWARD in technology?!?!?!?!? Especially THAT FAR?!?!?

CDMA has been dead in Australia... For what, at least a year now?!?! Sure everything else is behind (512Kbps internet with a 5GB download cap is FAST here...) but why develop a CDMA brick?!

Shaun

Bite your tongue, sir.

CDMA may be outgoing in Australia, but other places it is still alive and kicking. Though LTE is the future all around, it isn't even going to be widely available until 2011 and probably not maturely implemented enough until 2012 here in the US. That is 3 years, with 3 iPhone models between now and then (assuming they keep up a yearly cycle). Between Sprint and the new Verizon/Alltell merger, a HUGE portion of the country is still on CDMA. Also consider other nations, like Korea, where CDMA is still king of the hill.

EDGE was released widely in the US in what, 2003? They still make EDGE-only phones that don't utilize 3G (Blackberry Curve anyone?), which has been widely available since 2005-6 on AT&T.

My point is, there is still a lot of useful life out of an CDMA/EVDO radio technology even if it is being phased out long term. Apple is missing a huge revenue opportunity. Additionally, they could be the first (maybe next year's model?) who release a dual-unit....an EVDO / LTE device (much like EDGE/3G co-exist on the GSM flavor currently) to be on the cutting edge of the transition and attract even more users.

jhsfosho

Apr 1, 2009, 12:18 PM

I'm still waiting for the iphone come to other providers. Give us a CDMA version!

iMacoo7

Apr 1, 2009, 02:56 PM

Being that I own a iphone 3G, I wouldn't even consider upgrading for just an increase in space. I'm only using 2GB of my space right now. I dont need more space.

A better camera (3.2megapixel or higher), faster CPU, faster WiFi, faster 3G, better GPU, and BETTER battery life might make it tempting. OR if AT&T provides early upgrade options for current iPhone owners.

Early upgrade options??
I went through this conversation with another member here on this forum.
Depending on when you purchased your 3G iPhone.
I was one of the die-hards that camped out for the release & my upgrade eligibility (For any device *New iPhone I am eligible for but will come with a new 2 year agreement but I can still get this at the subsidized pricing)
was the end of February.
Someone posted a page showing the "Upgrade Awards" page of ATT
Which clearly states that if you have not upgraded/updated for at least 12 months -24 months then that person can get a discount on top of the subsidized price. <<----If any of that makes sense---- and depending on the persons plan amount determines if the account holder receives and additional $50.00 - $100.00 on top of the subsidy.

By Calling ATT more than 30 times and receiving all ranges of ATT customer support, to make sure that I can upgrade/update I have been told the same , since day one. It is possible for me to upgrade to any phone as of right now or even a new iPhone (With the iPhone , a person has to renew a 2 year agreement) when it emerges.

iMacoo7

Apr 1, 2009, 03:21 PM

I'd love a better camera. I always have my phone on me and am finding that I really dig the combination of facebook and using the phone for photos.

I have a first gen and wanted to upgrade for turn-by-turn GPS already, so better stuff and more memory would be great.
I totally agree with you on the camera aspect.Better camera would help when out and about or just out riding.
What kills me is the people that constantly say "Oh... If you want better pictures then use a regular digital camera and make sure you have it with you in your pocket or hanging off of your shoulder , just as much as you have your cell phone in your pocket while you are out and about.... "
Aw crap ... Just bought my iPhone a couple months ago. How long do I need to wait before I qualify for special pricing on an upgrade? I live in CT / USA.

:D
Its roughly 7 months from the time of purchase of your device. Contact ATT.
I purchased my 3G on launch date and I am able to upgrade/update to a new phone as of right now. If I want to purchase the new iphone I will have to renew the contract for 2 years.
I have also had the same account sine 2001.

diemos

Apr 1, 2009, 03:28 PM

I love that Concept, bring on the Pro/High end model baby, i can't wait to get one.

scottness

Apr 1, 2009, 05:22 PM

I love that Concept, bring on the Pro/High end model baby, i can't wait to get one.

Depends on price for me. I'd be willing to pay more for a high-end version if I could run background apps.

MY799

Apr 1, 2009, 07:08 PM

If AT&T offers discounted pricing on the new model, I think a lot of people will upgrade. Me included.

marddin

Apr 1, 2009, 11:01 PM

I don't get what the big hype is for a better camera.
Yes, snapn' some pictures and posting them on mobile facebook or myspace is cool but are your friends really looking for quality in your pictures you post. I mean come on. There are many other "upgrades" I'm looking for in this new iPhone rather than a better camera.

It may be just me but I like having a cool, sleek looking phone which is one of the "upgrades" I hope they include, because those concept pictures look 100% sweet.

I recently broke my white 3G so I'm rockn' a blackjak II until this new iPhone comes out. I will be first in line...........5MP camera or not hahaha.

michael.lauden

Apr 1, 2009, 11:46 PM

i bet the 32GB version is going to cost a crap load.

Andruw91

Apr 2, 2009, 12:52 AM

i bet the 32GB version is going to cost a crap load.

Going to a bank and applying for a loan

Amount:
$"A Crap Load"

MacFly123

Apr 2, 2009, 03:02 AM

I can't wait for the new iPhone. I'm still rockin' an 8gb 2g.

If the rumors are true about the faster 3g this this is going to be awesome.

I really like this concept of the new release:
http://www.dotdosh.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/iphone4g.png
Just not sure about the silence switch. . . ? But I do really like the placement of the camera.

Where did you find that mock-up??? That is by far the best one I've seen. Must be professional. I really like that!

It wouldn't be able to be that thin in real life, you have to get a headphone port and dock connector on the edges, but I love how they hid the ear speaker in the bezel, looks really nice and clean.

I would only make the bezel just a hair thinner. But other than that it is drop dead sexy. It looks better than the real iPhone right now! :)

scottness

Apr 2, 2009, 06:12 AM

It wouldn't be able to be that thin in real life, you have to get a headphone port and dock connector on the edges, but I love how they hid the ear speaker in the bezel, looks really nice and clean.

Instead of the dock connector, how about no dock connector? Sync wirelessly? Maybe not feasible, but why not? Charge with a much smaller connector.

bedifferent

Apr 2, 2009, 01:10 PM

MacFly123

Apr 2, 2009, 06:56 PM

Instead of the dock connector, how about no dock connector? Sync wirelessly? Maybe not feasible, but why not? Charge with a much smaller connector.

Yes, I thought of that but didn't say it because I just don't think that will happen yet. Ya it would be great, but I think we have a little longer to wait for that. And you still have to fit in the speaker and mic, and headphone jack on the top and bottom as he's saying below.

Great mockup but where would the mic be placed? The two "speakers" at the bottom are actually one speaker and one mic. Two speakers on top and no mic on the bottom would be a bit of a function issue ;).

I think if they made it a little thicker to be able to get the speaker, mic, and headphone jack in and would also be able to get the silent switch on the side in that case like normal, this would be perfect. I would love that to be the next iPhone, it is dead sexy! :D

P.S. I like the light bezel, but make it a hair thinner! Oh and the back would have to be some sort of laminate or treated polymer because real metal won't bode well with the antennas inside. Last thing, the square on the home button needs to be smaller.

scottness

Apr 2, 2009, 07:20 PM

iceman73

Apr 3, 2009, 02:56 AM

It may just be me...but I still wanna see a higher GB iPod Touch...

bedifferent

Apr 3, 2009, 05:00 PM

I think if they made it a little thicker to be able to get the speaker, mic, and headphone jack in and would also be able to get the silent switch on the side in that case like normal, this would be perfect. I would love that to be the next iPhone, it is dead sexy! :D

P.S. I like the light bezel, but make it a hair thinner! Oh and the back would have to be some sort of laminate or treated polymer because real metal won't bode well with the antennas inside. Last thing, the square on the home button needs to be smaller.

I forgot about the headphone jack :o. The metal would be an issue for wireless as well. It would be impossible for such a thin device to work with flash, GPS, 3G, WiFi, etc., although for an iPod Touch device with just a WiFi card perhaps it would. Can't wait to see the final release....

Side note, any one else see that RivDEV has released a Windows QuickPWN for jailbreaking 3.0 beta 2? As Winterboard doesn't work under it I didn't bother, the only reason I personally like jailbreaking is for theming.