The iPhone 5: To Buy or not to Buy?

Apple’s game changer or disappointment?

By Samadrita Guin, Staff Writer

The iPhone series has continuously been an element of intrigue. Every time I have been fortunate enough to be at the mall during the launch of an Apple product, the level of enthusiasm among prospective consumers, and the increase in everyone’s purchasing power has never ceased to amaze me. The huge line-ups outside of Apple stores, as replenishments are ordered by Apple employees on an hourly basis, are an astonishing sight.

So, now for the big question, should you or should you not buy the iPhone 5? If you are currently not an iPhone owner, should you convert and cross over to the dark side that is Apple Incorporated.? If you are currently an iPhone owner, is it worth spending those extra bucks on the latest model? What possible enhancements will make you want to loosen up those wallets and invest in the new iPhone 5? After reading numerous tech blogs and news articles, I have come across some rumours about the gadget that might help you make your decision.

Larger screen size

All previous iPhone models have had a similar screen size that is roughly 4.5 inches long 2.5 inches wide. Unless Apple introduces a radical design change, many would expect the iPhone 5 screen size to remain the same. However, Apple filled out a patent application that would allow them to utilize the frame space around the screen as part of the actual touch screen, which could add an approximate 5 millimeters to the screen size. This implies additional finger space for angry birds! So will the iPhone 5 have a bigger screen? Possibly. However, do keep in mind that there are many other reports out there that depict contradictory information.

A thinner model

One of the goals that Apple always tends to prioritize while developing their products is a faster, more advanced product in a thinner body. They have always emphasized the need to make things more mobile, and simultaneously make them more technologically advanced. Rumours are that Apple is planning a breakthrough in terms of a hardware design of the iPhone. The main source behind this rumour is the fact that a company called “Case-Mate” uploaded pictures of some iPhone 4S cases, along with some cases that could potentially be created for the iPhone 5, but were taken down hours after their release. These specific mystery cases featured a metal backplate for the phone, and a slightly thinner and wider shape than the existing iPhones. It also gave the appearance of rounded edges for the phone. Again, this is simply speculation around the online tech community, nothing is set in stone as of yet.

A Larger/Square Home Button

A rumour circulating from “spyshots” from case manufacturers also hinted the existence of a square home button that is quite different from the current circular one.

A new camera

Images leaked from the iPhone 5 production imply a larger camera, with an offering of 8 megapixels. 8 Megapixels do offer a moderate quality of imaging, which could mean that Apple is competing against small and cheap camera manufacturers. There is also serious debate about the existence of a dual LED flash. The current model does offer an LED flash for the camera on the rear face of the phone, but not one for the camera facing the front end of the phone. Some reports suggest an additional LED flash for the front camera, while other deny it.

iPhone 5 processor and memory

The iPhone 4S and the latest iPad 3 are powered by the Apple’s A5 chip. With the release of these products, there is much speculation as to whether the A5 will be the microprocessor for the iPhone 5. Apple is expected to start production of the A6 processor soon, so there is a chance that it will be used in the iPhone 5. RAM sizes are also expected to increase with the launch of the new product. If we are being optimistic, an increase of 1.5 to 2 gigs could be expected, but, if we are to be conservative with our numbers, we should expect at least an increase of 1GB if Apple still wants to remain competitive.  The Apple’s iCloud storage is also expected to increase for the new model, which would simply mean more freedom to download songs and videos!

In conclusion, there are some good things to look forward to, but do keep in mind that the sources for this information involve a lot of rumours and estimated conjectures. Finding information about the iPhone 5 is particularly difficult given Apple’s strict measures of controlling information. All we can do is to hope that Apple holds true to its expectations and releases a phone that will make you want to line up outside their store for hours to get your hands on it.

ARB Team
Arbitrage Magazine
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