Apple has confirmed that it will hold a press conference on October 4 to possibly announce a new iPhone product after weeks of tips and rumours that have flooded the industry about the likelihood of the iPhone 5 hitting the shelves next month.
The announcement of a press conference, which was sent to the offices of various technology publications, said “Let’s talk iPhone” and it was decorated with the icons of various iPhone applications.
It will be the first major press conference with Tim Cook as chief executive, after he took over from Steve Jobs, who stepped down in August after being on medical leave since the start of the year.
Apple has not confirmed the existence of the iPhone 5 but rumours and reports leaked from executives and component manufacturers indicate that the gadget is set to hit retailers next month.
Slips from a Deutsche Telekom executive also indicate that the device will be available in the middle of next month.
Leaks from case makers indicate that the new iPhone will feature a new design that will be different from the the iPhone 4.
The gadget is suspected to have an aluminium coating on the back and its edges will appear tapered, similar to the design of the iPad 2.
The new device is said to have an eight megapixel camera and is rumoured to be powered by the A5 chip – the same one that powers the iPad 2.
One particularly new rumour indicates that Apple may be using that power to include a new voice recognition system to integrate technology purchased through an acquisition last year.
The new report from 9to5Mac says that according to unnamed sources the new “assistant” feature will make voice command controls much more powerful, with users being able to give commands such as setting calendar events and reminders for the new notification system.
The report also says users will be able to ask the device questions such as how they can get to a particular location and the phone will deliver results via GPS and maps.
The ability to send text messages through voice is also included, along with the ability to have the assistant question input provided by the user in order to get the best results.
While the iPhone 5 is likely to be announced next week analysts and developers are eager for the release of iOS 5, which many believe will be launched at the same event.
Analysts will be watching Tim Cook’s performance with keen anticipation.
Steve Jobs’ presence at press conferences accounted for most of his public appearances and set a specific tone for the company, so Cook’s approach to these announcements will be analysed to determine the future direction of the company.
Users will be watching keenly to see the “one more thing” announcement Apple usually makes at these events.
Patrick Stafford is a freelance journalist and a former deputy editor of SmartCompany.
