For years, we’ve been hearing about cheaper versions of the iPhone to be released along with the usual, $200-300 models. And, for the most part, it has been happening: previous model prices are slashed and released along with their newer counterparts (i.e. the iPhone 3G when the 3GS was released, and the 3GS when the iPhone 4 came out). This time, it looks like an almost completely different version, or “light” version will hit shelves when the iPhone 5 comes out. Or will it?
TechCrunch points to images that may either be modded versions of the existing Apple smartphone, perhaps done with conversion kits, or it could be a less expensive version ready to hit the market once the iPhone 5 is released. It has a matte finish, which indicates that the front and rear panels are made of some kind of plastic instead of glass. It would be unusual for Apple to release a phone like this–with cheaper materials and a dull finish–but who knows? Maybe it’s trying to crack into the low-end, budget-conscious market. Maybe $49 for an 8GB iPhone 3GS is just too much for some folks.
What do you think? Does it look legit or could this be just a mistake or hoax? Let us know your thoughts.