The new year is only two days old but the rumor mill is continuing the rampant pace at which it churned throughout 2012.
According to sources from the Asian supply chain, we are hearing the most elaborate chatter yet regarding the next iPhone refresh.
While we can’t confirm or deny any particulars, it looks as though we can rule out annual refreshes. More closely following the Android model of business, Apple may update and refresh its popular iPhone line two or more times annually beginning in 2013.
According to analyst Brian White of Topeka Capital Markets, the “iPhone 5S” will likely turn up this summer, at least a few months before the one-year anniversary mark from the iPhone 5 launch in September 2012.
White thinks Apple will offer varying screen sizes with the iPhone 5S model. It’s a move the company has never before made.
“We believe this is about to change with the next iPhone offering different screen sizes that we believe will allow Apple to better bifurcate the market and expand its reach,” White said. “This eventually opens up the possibility for a lower-priced iPhone (i.e., iPhone mini) with a smaller screen size that could allow Apple to further penetrate markets such as China and open up opportunities in India.”
Interestingly enough, Apple may also break the black and white mold with the next iPhone. White says the iPhone 5S will come in a wide array of new colors, including pink, yellow, blue, green, purple, and silver. There may even be a red that will support AIDS research with proceeds from every purchase.
So… if Apple begins refreshing the iPhone more than once a year, will you refresh your device too?
