Mention of Apple's Next Smartphone is Buried in the iPhone System Software

Deep in the iPhone's system software is a clear reference to the next version of this smartphone. Unfortunately, this doesn't bring to light much new information about this upcoming device.

The iPhone 2.x Firmware has a reference to a model called "iPhone2,1". This isn't the original or the current iPhone 3G, as these are described in the firmware as ""iPhone1,1" and "iPhone1,2".

Many regard the iPhone 3G as a minor upgrade from the original, and the small bump in product numbers seems to reflect this. If so, the larger jump in the upcoming model's product number may be an indication that Apple thinks the next version will be a significant improvement.

What the Rumors Say

Apple has generally been very good at preventing solid information about its products from leaking out well ahead of their unveiling. As the next-generation iPhone isn't expected to be announced for months, it's really no surprise that details on this device are scanty and unreliable.

Earlier this month, rumors began to circulate that this model will have a quad-core processor. If true, this would considerably improve this platform's potential as a mobile gaming console. Apple has said it intends to position the iPhone as a gaming device.

How these fit in with earlier reports of a smaller version called the iPhone Nano aren't clear.

Via MacRumors and ZDnet