Contradicting several recent reports that Apple is planning a smaller iPhone, the New York Times is now reporting that, while Apple is looking for ways to make the iPhone cheaper, it is not pursuing a smaller version of the device.
The paper&'s sources say that Apple engineers are too busy finishing up the iPhone 5, which is expected to debut this summer, to be worrying about an iPhone Mini. One source says that an iPhone Mini wouldn&'t be cheaper to manufacture and could adversely affect apps written for the existing iPhone&'s 3.5-inch screen.
Instead, Apple will continue to make the previous iPhone generations a low-cost alternative to the newest model. This time around, Apple may also change some internal hardware to drive down the price of older models, according to the NYT&'s source. Such a move would still allow Apple to compete with increasingly cheap Android devices.
Apple currently offers the 8 gigabyte iPhone 3GS for $49 with a two-year contract. That model, the third in the iPhone&'s lineage, could potentially be offered for free with a contract following the release of the iPhone 5. The iPhone 4 could drop in price by half to $99.
The NYT&'s source confirms previous reports that Apple will likely make its MobileMe service, which currently costs $99 a year, completely free. The service could serve as a digital file locker for users to stream their music, pictures, and potentially even video. There&'s also been speculation that Apple is aiming for an iPhone that can only stream media, but we think that&'s crazy.
Calling all developers: We want to write up your app for VentureBeata4‚¬a4„s Mobile App Spotlight! If you have an innovative mobile app that hasna4‚¬a4„t been featured on VentureBeat yet, submit it for consideration right away. The Mobile App Spotlight is sponsored by The Intel AppUp developer program.
Next Story: Photos capture Obama&'s moment with Zuckerberg &8212' in a suit &8212' and Jobs in turtleneck Previous Story: Mobile Baby gets babies online before birth
Print Email Twitter Facebook Google Buzz LinkedIn Digg StumbleUpon Reddit Delicious Google More&8230'
Companies: Apple
Companies: Apple
Devindra Hardawar is VentureBeat's lead mobile writer and East Coast correspondent. He studied philosophy at Amherst College, worked in IT support for several years, and has been writing about technology since 2004. He now lives in Brooklyn, New York. You can reach him at devindra@venturebeat.com (all story pitches should also be sent to tips@venturebeat.com), and on Twitter at @Devindra.
Have news to share Launching a startup Email: tips@venturebeat.com
VentureBeat has new weekly email newsletters. Stay on top of the news, and don't miss a beat.
Discuss Add this link to... Bury
Comments