A Korean company has started manufacturing an inexpensive version of iPhone 4 with 8 GB internal storage, according to a Reuters report which cited two sources familiar with the development. Without divulging the company’s identity, the report noted that the 8 GB iPhone 4 will go on sale within weeks. It further stated that the new phone will be called iPhone 4S since it will be a better version of iPhone 4.
The new Reuters’ report has nothing more to add than what has already been discussed over the last couple of months. Gossip suggests that Apple’s component suppliers in South East Asia will help the company build the new iPhone.
According to sources, Apple buys flash storage from Toshiba and Samsung Electronics. The device is question will be branded iPhone 4S and will be a slightly improved version of the current iPhone 4. The new iPhone 4S will have a slightly bigger display, better Antenna and an 8 Megapixel camera, stated one of the sources.
Why would Apple do what it has never done in the last three years i.e. produce a cheaper iPhone?
The evidence is out there and massive. Two year old Apple iPhone 3GS is the second favourite smartphone in the USA. The model has been selling at a lower initial purchase price and has lower total cost compared to the iPhone 4. However, that works only on USA based networks. In the last two months, several Indian users have made the best of the iPhone 3GS for Rs 19,990 offer, clearly indicating the immense potential for inexpensive and affordable iOS smartphones.
iPhone 4S will be a totally different model compared to iPhone 5, which is likely to be launched by September end.
As per the information provided, Hon Hai and Pegatron will ramp up to meet the 45 million units-production capacity of iPhone 5. This model will be a world mode device, which means it will have a radio chip that will support both GSM and CDMA networks.
However, Apple remained tight-lipped when asked for further clarity.