Apple may come out with an updated version of the iPhone 4 in June this year, which could have a SIM-less design and 8 Megapixel camera.
Japanese Mac focused blog MacOtakara, cited one of its sources as saying that Apple is working on the improved version of iPhone 4, which has the same form factor, and that it will be branded iPhone 4S, just like iPhone 3GS.
An Apple India spokesperson, however, refused to comment on the report but hinted “to look out at the Apple Worldwide Developer Conference 2011” that commences on June 6. Though there were no direct pointers shared we assume that Apple will announce iOS 5, music streaming service iCloud and a revamped MobileMe service.
Recently, chief executive officer of France Telecom, Stephane Richard, in an interview, said that Apple had been working on a SIM-less device; that the project was code named the e-SIM Project; and that the company has been considering reducing the size of the SIM module.
That’s why Apple developed the microSIM. Many telecom operators informed Apple that a SIM module is critical for the security and authentication process. Considering the pitfalls in the ambitious e-SIM project, Apple decided to continue working with a smaller SIM alongside a Dual-Mode chip.
The company is also reportedly working on the next iPhone with Qualcomm’s dual-mode chip that allows the same device to be used on GSM or CDMA networks. That means, if and when this said iPhone model is made available, one can simply buy it off-the-shelf and choose amongst GSM or CDMA service providers. It’s a win-win situation for Apple and for consumers, but not for the telecom operators.
Apple won’t have to design GSM and CDMA devices separately, just like it did for iPhone 4; and consumers will enjoy the freedom to choose between GSM or CDMA service providers – clearly more options and flexibility.