Next-Generation iPhone Pics Leaked?
While the images have not been officially confirmed, both iPodObserver and MacRumors have posted photos of what appears to be an unreleased 16-GB iPhone with Model No. A1303, which hasn't appeared on previous iPhone models. The case is also said to be textured for better gripping.
Details are few, but MacRumors indicates that the new iPhone case will "shed the glossy appearance for a matte black look" while also introducing a new case-back made of metal. iPodObserver, which was first to publish the pics, was responsible for publishing early back-case photos of the iPhone 3G before the model was released.
The early look at the suspected new iPhone's casing are said to come from China. The matte black finish is a turnaround on previous iPhone styling. The first-generation iPhone came with an aluminum back casing, while the iPhone 3G featured a smooth plastic curved back.
Rumors of a new iPhone have been circulating in earnest since last month when Apple's iPhone 2.2.1 firmware update for the iPhone and iPod Touch dropped hints that a new device could be coming soon. The firmware update used a numbering scheme not used by previous iPhone models, indicating that iPhone 2.1 could be on its way.