Three iPhone Types in Development for Chinese Market

We covered some tantalizing rumors on the upcoming iPhone late last week. We were mostly excited to learn that the next gen iPhone will include FM radio and an improved camera. And because Apple ordered two different camera types, the iPhone "Pro" rumors look to have some meat to them. Today, rumors that there will be three different models of the new iPhone were loosed upon the blogosphere.



Slashphone Google-translated a Chinese article from the China Times that alludes to three different iPhone types:

• Standard 3G iPhone


• Enhanced iPhone for Chinese market


• EDGE network iPhone

We've already heard buzz surrounding the standard next gen, China-oriented and Pro models of the iPhone, but the EDGE network version is something new entirely.

The EDGE network is a somewhat outdated network standard, so Apple's decision to support it is definitely a little bit confusing. The most logical interpretation of an upcoming EDGE-based iPhone would include Apple's recent moves into budget markets. The EDGE based iPhone would probably be a good candidate for a discounted, contract free iPhone with a smaller data plan than the luxury models.

Parts for the new iPhones have already been ordered. The new phones should hit the Chinese market some time in late Q2. There was no mention in the China Times of a "Nano" model of the iPhone.

In the West, we can expect the iPhone 3.0, the Pro and, just maybe, a budget iPhone to hit the scene toward late June.

We have a review of the current generation iPhone for you to read, along with more iPhone rumors on the tech news blog to get you excited for the iPhone 3.0:

Spec Details on Next Gen iPhone Abound

The Long Shadow of iPhone OS 3.0: In-App Transactions

Apple Rumors: iPhone Video Call, Background Apps, Flash

App Store Set to Sell 1 Billionth App, Give Away Big Prizes