An analyst report by Ming-Chi Kuo from Concord Securities predicts the final gold master release of iOS 5 will be released some time next week. Specifically, he said developers will gain access to the iOS 5 GM between September 23 and 30. Kuo believes after the software is released, it will take approximately 10 to 12 days to get it on new units. By new units, of course he means the latest iPod touch and iPhone 5.
Let’s take a look at the history of iOS 5 releases so far. Beta 1 was posted for developers on June 6, Beta 2 on June 24, Beta 3 on July 11, Beta 4 on July 22, Beta 5 on August 6, Beta 6 on August 19, and finally the Beta 7 at the end of August. Glancing at this schedule, we are just about due for a new beta, so his theory seems on target. Additionally with all the rumors of an iPhone 5 release in October and Apple’s promise of a release in fall, we’re clearly running out of time. iOS 5 will probably get to customers within the 30 days.
Traditionally, Apple didn’t randomly release the GM. Last year at WWDC 2010, Steve Jobs announced the gold master would be available that day for developers. Regular customers got the release a week or two later. Following this trend, we’ll have to see invitations for an Apple keynote go out very soon — possibly this week. Then once the event takes place, boom: iOS 5 GM seed available.
According to rumors, the upcoming keynote will also take wraps off the iPhone 5. Though a refresh to the iPod line is expected as always, there has been a suspicious lack of leaks surrounding them this year.
The anaylst also had a few choice words on the latest iPhone 5 rumors: don’t believe them. He suggests the iPhone 5 will only include enhancements from the iPhone 4 such as a new camera and updated antenna system. It will also supposedly have the same design, but right now, it’s his word against the rest of the blogosphere, especially considering the recent leaked cases.
iOS 5 will include a number of new features for the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad like Twitter integration, a new Reminders app, iMessage, and Notification Center. Which one are you looking forward to most?
[via AppleInsider]