Images of the iPhone 5S, showcasing the interior and back shell of the purported handset, made their way onto the Web through MacRumors last week.
These are the latest images in a string of information leaks about Apple's newest release. MacRumors dissected the images it received and compared them to existing information on the rumoured device.
It specifically found the back shell of the device, which looks similar to that of the current iPhone 5, suggests the addition of a dual flash with a vertical pill-shaped window for the LED flash as opposed to a round window.
Another finding indicates the device is not exactly brand new. According to MacRumors, a code on the bottom of the device's main chip shows the number "1243" suggesting the chip was made in the 43rd week of 2012.
While the image of the device's interior doesn't answer many burning questions, it seems Apple hasn't ventured from its design recipe for the iPhone 5.
Bring on budget
Apple's single smartphone offering has been seen as an obstacle for the company, with pundits believing a budget iPhone could cause disruption in the market.
Fuseware CEO Mike Wronski says the introduction of the low-cost iPhone is inevitable, as Apple is looking to diversify its customer base and grab revenue from the lower end of the market. "A sub-$400 iPhone is a must, but to really compete in emerging markets, Apple needs to slash its profit margins and find hardware suppliers that can offer similar phone features for a much lower cost."
The so-called budget or low-cost iPhone is probably the most anticipated smartphone announcement following the release of Samsung's flagship Galaxy S4.
The iPhone 5S is expected to make its appearance later this year, while the budget iPhone with a plastic shell is rumoured to be released around the same time.
Change to innovate
Reports surfaced earlier this month that the US computing giant might consider larger screens for its future iPhones to compete with main rival Samsung.
Apple CEO Tim Cook had indicated on more than one occasion that the company would not move towards larger screens.
But according to a recent Reuters report, sources with knowledge of Apple's plans said it is looking at introducing at least two bigger iPhones next year ? one with a 4.7-inch screen and one with a 5.7-inch screen.
They also said suppliers had been approached with plans for the larger screens, but noted it is still unclear whether Apple will actually launch its flagship product in the larger sizes.
Apple declined to comment on the reports.
World Wide Worx MD Arthur Goldstuck says screen size has been one of Apple's biggest shortfalls in the ever-expanding smartphone market. "Apple is falling behind with the iPhone 5. Consumers want larger screens and unfortunately we are not seeing these products from the Apple stable."
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