Tuesday 17 Oct 2006 - 10:28
Apple has officially filed for the 'iPhone' trademark and analysts predict that the company will launch two hybrid iPod/mobile phone models, perhaps as soon as Macworld Expo, held in January 2007.
A report on Forbes cites new research from Prudential Equity analyst Jesse Tortora. The analyst claims the company is preparing to launch two such devices, basing his information on "sources" and "recent checks".
He predicts both a smart phone and a slim music phone, the report explains. One of these models will include wireless (WiFi) connectivity and a keyboard for messaging.
Recent rumours have speculated the company will launch the phones in conjunction with US mobile network operator, Cingular. More recently, T-Mobile CEO Robert Dotson said Apple's OS "represents the future of next-generation mobile networks".
As reported by AppleInsider, the Apple trademark is described in a Southeast Asian trademark filing that is dated 15 September. The filing occupies several categories, including that of a music player, mobile phone and video game machine.
There have been multiple analysts predicting Apple will release the purported iPod/mobile phone product. Most recently, American Technology Research analyst Shaw Wu wrote: ""Our research indicates that an Apple-designed smart phone has moved from concept to prototype and recently has progressed to near completion as a production unit."
He added: "We believe this smart phone has been in development for over 12 months and has overcome substantial challenges including design, interference, battery life and other technical glitches".
For the full story see Macworld's Web site
Macworld Staff
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