2 new conflicting iPhone reports support “multiple iPhone models” rumor
Filed under: Doug's Rumor Corner, Rampant Speculation, Rumors, iPhone
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Remember when crazy faithful Macenstein reader Doug wrote us telling us to expect Apple to release at least two and possibly even three models of iPhone this spring? (see Even more rumors: The new iPhones’ specs) Well, two conflicting reports from two fairly major and reputable sites suggest their may be something to Doug’s claims after all.
First came reports from Engadget that the new 3G iPhone would come with GPS and be a bit larger/thicker than the current model, something Doug mentioned in his claims, and something that most of our readers blasted him for. While it is nice to think that Apple would continue its trend of slimming its portables with each new revision, logic would suggest that the current iPhone’s innards are packed pretty tightly, and adding a GPS module might very well necessitate a slight change in form factor. So when we read Engadget’s claim, reportedly from a trusted source who had actually held one of the new iPhones, we re-read Doug’s report and said, “hmmmm…”
Today, however, Electronista is claiming that “The next generation of Apple’s phone should include a significantly smaller phone that may replace the existing model… with a 2.8-inch screen replacing the 3.5-inch model used today” .
Hmm… One says bigger, one says smaller… So, who do we believe? Or are they BOTH right? Doug’s claims would seem to support the idea that both sites may have correct information, and may in fact be speaking of two different models of iPhone.
Despite the clamoring for “true” iPhone GPS on the internet, I can completely see Apple offering a model of iPhone sans GPS to those who do not view GPS as a must-have feature. Personally, I pretty much know where I am about 99% of the time, so GPS isn’t personally that exciting a prospect if it means increased size/weight and lower battery life. Add to that Apple’s seeming move into the enterprise market (a market used to carrying around laptop-sized PDA/Smartphones) with the iPhone 2.0 software, and even a slightly bigger iPhone would seem like a miracle to business users who might want a larger screen.
Obviously, we’re rooting for Doug, as that means we may have a bonafide rumor source, so perhaps we’re reading too much into these reports (as if you could ever over-analyze an iPhone rumor!). That being said, we’re waiting until we see an iPhone shuffle before we send him a cookie.
What are your thoughts? Will Apple create multiple iPhones tailored for different users, just as they have for the iPod and MacBook lines?
Even more rumors: The new iPhones’ specs
Filed under: Doug's Rumor Corner, Rampant Speculation, Rumors, Slow News Day, iPhone
Notice the placement of the apostrophe in that title.
Faithful Macenstein tipster Doug writes in yet again with insight into 3 upcoming iPhone models allegedly set to be released.
Just as the iPod lineup developed and branched out, so does Apple have plans for the iPhone lineup. Here’s some of what is being considered:
A “Pro” or “Max” model, that is noticeably thicker than current model (over 15mm, versus 11.6mm for existing iPhone), to incorporate a battery with almost triple the duration of the existing iPhone. This model is also the 3G model. It is targeted for power users and enterprise, meaning people who may use their phone 2-3 days in a row (on a business trip) without accessing a PC or having the time or opportunity to charge it.
Existing iPhone stays the same, along with no 3G, just Edge.
Also being considered, and with engineering and development basically done, is a new entry model,
Rumor: Apple’s Blu-Ray plans revealed
Filed under: Doug's Rumor Corner, Final Cut Studio, Hardware, Rampant Speculation, Rumors
Anyone want a rumor? We got one, cheap.
Sighting “a source” and “info gleaned from various non disclosures”, faithful Macenstein tipster Doug has written us with what he claims is Apple’s forthcoming plan to offer a new Blu-Ray burner/NAS device geared toward video professionals and tying into the Final Cut Server line. As with all rumors we present, this one should be treated as bullshit until someone physically sees such a device for sale in an Apple Store. As the source himself says ” I have no way of determine if a product has been greenlighted, what price or release is…etc”. But hey, there are only so many pics of Paris Hilton you can put up in one day. Read and decide for yourself.
Apple’s Blu-Ray Solution
Many pundits and a small percentage of the public at large have been bemoaning the total absence of Blu-Ray in the Mac lineup. Pretty much every other PC vendor has addressed this, even if its a play-only BTO option. Why has Apple been ignoring (seemingly) Blu-Ray?
Not because they were waiting to see who won the Blu-Ray vs. HD-DVD war. If they were on a side, it was always going to be Blu-Ray. Its much simpler. Steve Jobs saw it as a product with no real demand. Who wants to watch HD on a small computer screen with tinny speakers? If you’re into Blu-Ray then you have a large, HD flat-screen at home, with surround sound, etc. You can share the experience with others while relaxing on the couch, instead of being tethered at your desk. Also, every Blu-Ray disc sold is one less iTunes sale or rental. And as for using it as a backup solutions, external hard drives are cheap, larger, reusable and faster.
Addressing the professional video segment is where Apple sees the Blu-Ray sweet spot. These folks have real Blu-Ray authoring needs that are currently being met by other vendors, even though they may otherwise be working in a completely Apple/Mac workflow.
iTablet: Ramblings of a madman revisited
Filed under: Doug's Rumor Corner, Hardware, Rampant Speculation, Rumors
“remember my Mac Nano leak? Well, this patent shows that Apple HAS been researching docking technology -slash - turn a portable or tablet into a desktop methods. Maybe now I’ll get the respect I so richly deserve!”
Such are the words of faithful Macenstein reader Doug who is referring to his November 30th e-mail to us in which he outlined Apple’s future plans to bring about a dockable, portable device. We cleverly titled the article “The Macworld iTablet: Ramblings of a Madman, or does he know something…?“. At the time we assumed Doug was just outlining a vision of the future based solely on conjecture (and we’re still 87% sure he was) but a recent Apple patent for an iTablet-like docking station does provide a much-missing dose of feasibility to Doug’s claims.
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