Rumor: Apple Looking At Including Physical Keyboard In Next iPhone
February 15, 2011
The debut of the next iPhone is still months away. Still, we’ve heard an interesting rumor about the newest device, which should be released in June.
According to the Taiwanese website, tw.apple.pro, Apple is currently testing three prototype models, one which will most likely become the iPhone 5.
Surprisingly, one of the models includes a “sliding cover” that conceals a physical keyboard. This would be a first for an iPhone.
While the prospect of a keyboard is interesting, it seems far-fetched. After all, Apple has heavily advertised the simplicity of the virtual keyboard that has been a trademark of each of the previous models. Changing this would be quite unexpected.
Another prototype model looks very similar to the existing iPhone 4, except with improved battery life, and a better camera. In selecting this prototype, Apple would be releasing an evolutionary handset. This would be similar to when the iPhone 3GS replaced the iPhone 3G. It would include a few improvements, but the actual iDevice would look very similar to the iPhone 4.
The site did not mention any specifics about the third prototype.
These rumors are significant since tw.apple.pro has a history of leaking news about Apple that later proved to be correct.
According to the Apple Insider, the site got its hands on a white panel for an iPhone 4 before the handset was announced. In addition, last July, they showed off a screen that was ultimately released as part of the newest iPod nano.
Whether these latest rumors are actual leaks, or completely off the mark, remains to be seen.
What do you think? Would Apple release an iPhone with a physical keyboard? Leave your comments below.