‘Twas the night before a new iPhone release, and all through the tech world, everyone is stirring along with their computer’s mouse.
On the eve of what is likely to be Apple’s grand unveiling of the 5th generation iPhone, the tech-blogosphere is buzzing about what exactly tomorrow’s media event at Apple headquarters in Cupertino, California will bring.
In addition to new and refreshed products and services, much of the hype surrounding the occasion relates to Steve Jobs – specifically, whether or not the former Apple CEO will take the stage one last time to unveil the next-generation iPhone.
Not withstanding Tim Cook’s promotion to Chief Executive Officer in August after Jobs’ resignation due to health concerns, there is a palpable buzz that Steve Jobs will be given an opportunity to present the final iPhone that was developed during his tenure.
Apple product launches are the most closely watched events on the technology calendar. The new model, which some have dubbed the iPhone 5, will have a bigger touch screen, better antenna and an 8-megapixel camera, one source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters in August. The event will take place in Silicon Valley rather than downtown San Francisco where Apple made some of its most famous announcements.
On Monday, a report from Reuters only generated more hype for a possible Steve Jobs cameo.
Channing Smith, co-manager of the Capital Advisors Growth Fund, said: “Investors would like to see Steve Jobs to confirm that he is still involved, but we have dealt with the fact that he’s not going to be as involved.”
“We’d love to see an appearance but it’s not critical,” Smith added.
Of course, this isn’t the first time that a Steve Jobs appearance has been in doubt. Few initially expected Steve Jobs to unveil the iPad 2 last spring (Just two months into his medical leave of absence from Apple). So if his history is any indication of his future, Steve Jobs may be planning one last memorable cameo for tomorrow’s iPhone 5 unveiling.
Stay tuned.
