Apple Planning Low-Cost iPhone

By Paul Thomson :: 5:12 PM

Apple is said to be planning a low-cost version of its popular iPhone handset for emerging market countries such as China. Supply chain sources and others believe that the product will be released in the second half of this year.

A sample of the cut rate iPhone has apparently made the rounds, and it has a larger display, perhaps even as large as 5 inches, and has a different exterior housing that the current iPhone 5.

It is unclear if the two rumors are related, but other industry sources indicate that Apple plans to enter a partnership with telecom giant China Mobile to launch special version of the iPhone in the China market.

According to Wall Street Journal sources, Apple will likely cut costs by using different materials for the housing, perhaps polycarbonate plastic. Other internal parts might remain the same or could even be recycled from older iPhone hardware.

Details are scant at this time, but stay tuned. With CES ramping up, Apple may hope to steal some of the thunder from the tech event.