Nov 03

‘iPhone 4G’ Part Probably Meant for Pirates, Not Apple

Posted in: iPhone, Phones, rumors, speculation, Today's Chili

iphone_4g_midboard
Before we’ve even had time to get sick of the new iPhone 3GS, hints of a fourth-generation iPhone have already surfaced on the web.

Chinese wholesaler China Ontrade has posted a part listing, accompanied with a photo, that it claims is the fourth-generation iPhone’s midboard. But given the timing of this listing, Wired.com doubts the authenticity of the part. Rather than an actual Apple component, this is probably China Ontrade’s marketing gimmick to attract iPhone counterfeiters looking to make the next iPhone knockoff.

It’s worth noting, as Gizmodo has pointed out, that China Ontrade earlier this year leaked photos claiming to be parts for the third-generation iPhone, which were confirmed to be the real thing when the iPhone 3GS was disassembled.

But why so soon? Apple has released each of its iPhones in the summertime, so a fourth-generation iPhone shouldn’t hit stores until June or July of 2010. Thus, it’s questionable why a part would be produced for the next iPhone so far in advance: Manufacturers traditionally order parts at the last minute to avoid stock congestion or last-minute changes, Gizmodo points out. Gizmodo also speculates there’s a slight possibility Apple could be rushing out the next iPhone to compete with the increasing number of Android phones on the market.

Still, Apple would not be pleased if a partner leaked parts giving away hints of any of its future products. (Why would Apple continue to work with China Ontrade if it leaked third-generation iPhone parts?) A more logical inference is that China Ontrade is most likely using its proven “track record” for leaking images of the iPhone 3GS parts to gain attention in the press, and thus attract producers of Chinese knockoffs to buy this new part.

The marketing angle is such: “You could produce the ‘fourth-generation iPhone’ before Apple!” In the next few months, expect boxes labeled “iPhone 4G” to appear on shelves in Chinese electronic stores.

What do you gather from the part listing? Add your thoughts in the comments below.

Product Page [China Ontrade via Gizmodo]

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Photo: China Ontrade


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