Apple will hit the stage in San Francisco tomorrow to reveal a new iPhone. We’re sure you’ve seen the odd picture or heard a rumour here and there, but what can you really expect to see? We’ve been following the ins and outs of the Apple world since the release of the iPhone 4S last year, and here’s what we think they’ll reveal.
Form
The most noticeable change in the iPhone 5 is expected to be its size. The iPhone 5 is expected to be the first iPhone to change to a new five row apps layout, with the display becoming taller to accomodate this. This additional height brings the screen size to 4″ diagonally, which should also make the aspect ratio near 16:9, which is commonly used for films, games and other HD content. As well as being a different size, the iPhone is expected to include an IGZO display, meaning it will be much thinner than ever before. The chassis will be a two-tone design and will be available in white or black.
Of course, this change of size necessitates a new iPhone 5 case. Even more accessories will have to be replaced this time around if you upgrade from the iPhone 4S to the iPhone 5, as the dock connector is also expected to shrink to 9 pins from the current 30. That’ll make it about the same size as a standard micro USB port on an Android or Windows Phone, and will consequently make room for the headphone jack to relocate to the bottom of the phone instead of at the top. While an adapter will be available, no doubt many accessory vendors will be jumping at the chance to provide all new products and increasing numbers are likely to move to wireless. Apple itself is expected to get in on the game with a new version of the iconic iPhone / iPod headphones.
Function
There should be quite a few functional changes to the new iPhone, not least of all new hardware support. As well as a possible jump in CPU and graphics power, the new iPhone is expected to support high speed 4G LTE data networks and NFC contactless payment systems in its iOS 6 operating system. This isn’t just for American carriers either – the new iPhone is expected to work with Everything Everywhere’s UK LTE service, and could well be an exclusive for them.
Conclusion
So there you have it – the major talking points to look out for in Apple’s announcement. That announcement is scheduled for later tomorrow, at 10AM in California or 6 PM here in the UK. Be sure to tune in for all of the latest news and announcements about the iPhone 5 and any other products Apple announces!
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