February 12th, 2009
Spy shot: Next-gen iPhone?
iPodObserver posted an image of what appears to the be reverse of a new iPhone, its model number (A1303) is clearly visible and hasn’t been used before.
The new iPhone case back appears to shed its glossy appearance for a matte black look, and also sports what may be etched markings which indicates the plastic used in the current iPhone 3G model may be dumped in favor of a metal back — much like the first generation iPhone.
The original iPhone shipped with an aluminum rear panel but that was changed to plastic in the current iPhone 3G, which dramatically improved cell and Wi-Fi reception for many users. The return to an aluminum rear panel would appear to be a contradiction for Apple.
MacRumors adds additional photos and notes that they reportedly come from China and the new rear case is also said to be textured for better gripping.
Jason D. O'Grady is the editor of PowerPage.org, which has been publishing daily mobile technology news since December 1995. For disclosures on Jason's industry affiliations, click here or to view Jason's full profile click here.
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