These statements are simply ignorant. Other than the sides it's a completely different design. So if 4 out of the 6 surfaces are completely different how can it be a re-has of the 4/4s? (you can argue the side with volume and mute is different because the parts are smaller but I won't split hairs)
Outer shell + completely new insides = new phone design. Any other description that includes the words copy, rehash, stretched, same are all bunk.
And to add balance on the flip side if they released the next new iPhone with the same size screen as the s3 then I would stick with my 4s. The screen is way too big for my preferences and is moving away from a phone to a mini tablet but that's just my opinion and preference.
I don't have television, and I don't pay attention to Apple ads. I've never been impressed by the iPhone's design until the 4 came out. I immediately loved it. Should, and probably will, be at some point in the MoMA.
I think the 5 is not as aesthetically pleasing as the 4/4S. However, the cutouts on the bottom of the 5 grill are beautiful, and definitely an improvement over the 4/4S.