In addition to earlier claims suggesting that Apple is planning a redesigned Smart Cover for the iPad 3, iLounge also makes an interesting claim about the iPhone 5 design, suggesting that Apple will likely use a glass-like rear panel for the new device. The new design is also reportedly even thinner than the iPhone 4S, which would be a welcome design trait for many users.
Despite the well-established “aluminum-backed iPhone 5” rumors that have continued to circulate since the iPhone 4 was released, Apple is nonetheless continuing to experiment with glass and ceramic rear shells for a future iPhone model. The upshot is that the new design would be like the iPhone 4, but thinner, thanks to Corning’s stronger Gorilla Glass 2 and the further reduction of internal components. Our source suggests that the 30-pin Dock Connector is likely on the way out in the near future, and that a larger screen remains in the cards.
The report goes on to note that Apple may also include a larger display, as well as possible replacing the current 30-pin dock connecter with some sort of smaller connector, as previously rumored.
