Pictures of Next-Gen iPhone Leaked – Looks Genuine

Two generally reliable sources have gotten their hands on similar pictures of what seems to be a new iPhone model. The alleged new device sports a differently textured casing, and has a model number (A1303) stamped on it, underneath the 16GB sign.

Although Macrumors got hold of some pictures of the alleged new casing, the site points out to iPodObserver, as they were the ones posting images of the new device / shell first. The image (above) depicts an unreleased 16GB iPhone with the model number A1303. According to the latter, this new iPhone case apparently sheds its glossy appearance in exchange for a matte black look, while the case-back is said to be made of metal.

The original source of these images believes this could be the real thing. Moreover, iPodObserver reminds readers that the site posted leaked pictures of the iPhone 3G before it was released. Hopefully, they're right about this one, too.

But, as the respective report was doing the rounds on the Internet, Macrumors was presented with a set of similar imagery, which the site posted without fail.

MacRumors declares that the images appear to be from the same series, but that it can't put its finger on their authenticity. “We present them for discussion given iPodObserver's apparent belief in them. The images have reportedly come from China and are said to depict the back-casing of the next iPhone. The case is also said to be textured for better gripping,” the report says.

While Apple has denied developing an iPhone nano, the company is widely expected to release a new handset model nonetheless, perhaps this summer. Most likely, the new iPhone will not be priced at $99, although some believe this is the case, with Apple's current acting CEO, Tim Cook telling members of the mass media that Apple pursues to make better devices, not cheap, under-specced versions of the existing ones.