Rumors were floating around recently (started by none other than DigiTimes) that Apple is working on developing a cheaper iPhone for release possibly later this year. Although this was less than believable considering the source, new reports from both Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal are also saying that Apple is working on a cheaper iPhone.
While Apple has reportedly explored this possibility for the past couple of years, plans are apparently progressing and a less expensive version of the iPhone could launch later this year. The cheaper model would resemble the standard iPhone, but would feature a different, less expensive body, which would appeal to customers in emerging markets and developing nations. Releasing a cheaper iPhone is part of a strategy to appeal to budget-conscious customers by making the iPhone more affordable.
The new device would be smaller than current models, which conflicts with earlier reports of a larger screen, and it would also use cheaper parts. It’s possible that the new iPhone could use a different shell made of polycarbonate plastic, which would differ from the iPhone 5’s aluminum body. Other parts could stay the same or be recycled from older iPhone models. The price for the new iPhone could be set somewhere between $99 and $149. It’s also being reported that Apple has spoken to at least one of the major wireless providers in the US.
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