BY BRIAN BONDUS


Apple released a new operating system for the iPhone this week and rumor has it the

company could redesign the hardware — and release several new versions of the iPhone

this fall.

New reports say the company is planning to release 4.7 and 5.7-inch models. That's more

than an inch larger than the iPhone 4. (Via ZDNet)

Some say the company is entering into the "phablet" market — larger smartphones that

are not quite big enough to be considered tablets. (Via The Independent)

Rumors also suggest Apple may come out with a less expensive $99 colorful iPhone.

The phone would not be as advanced as current iPhones or the larger screen models. Apple

supplier Pegatron would make these phones. (Via AppleInsider)

Foxconn will carry on producing the black and white models, which will remain full-price

exclusives.  

Many believe this new batch of smartphones is aimed to compete with Samsung's extensive

lineup of smartphones. Currently, Samsung has the 5.5-inch Galaxy Note II and phones

at many different price points. (Via International Business Times)

But a writer for CNET was asked if getting a new iPhone even matters these days. Aren't

they all pretty much the same?

She basically said yes — besides faster processing, better screens and sharper cameras

— the changes to hardware now are just incremental and don't make a big difference to the average

consumer's experience.

"Eventually, the hardware differences among new devices become somewhat insignificant

to most wireless users. Some people might argue that we've already reached that point.

And that's why the nearly 3-year-old iPhone 4, and almost 2-year-old iPhone 4S are still

selling like hotcakes."

She goes on to say Apple's new operating system iOS7 is what will set Apple's smartphones

apart from the competition.