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TUAW reports that references to two new iPad models have been discovered in the just-released iOS 5 beta: "iPad3,1" and "iPad3,2". Given that there are currently three iPad 2 models internally identified as "iPad2,1" (Wi-Fi), "iPad2,2" (GSM), and "iPad2,3" (CDMA), the appearance of only two models in iOS 5 lends credence to rumors that the next-generation cellular-capable iPad may come as a world-mode device able to run on either CDMA or GSM networks.
The report does note, however, that these indications of new models do not always lead to new product releases, as a previously-discovered "iPhone3,2" has yet to see the light of day following the release of the GSM (iPhone3,1) and CDMA (iPhone3,3) iPhone 4 models. The missing model may have been destined for a carrier running on a different standard such as T-Mobile's slightly-different GSM 3G network, but a deal with such a carrier may simply have fallen through.
Today's report also cites the presence of "iPhone4,1" and "iPhone4,2" references pointing to the next-generation iPhone. These references are not new, however, as they appeared in iOS 4.3 betas as far back as early January.
Interestingly, iOS 5 currently makes no reference to any unreleased iPod touch models, maxing out at the current "iPod4,1" fourth-generation iPod touch. This of course does not mean that no new iPod touch is in the works, but it is curious that device identifiers for models presumably set for introduction in just a few months are not included.
Top Rated Comments
Would really like to see that, too, but I think most people aren´t ready for this, yet;-).
It would make more sense to make the next iPhone the same way they make the iPad. Make one that is WiFi only that could make Skype and Facetime calls and the other one that would have 3G/4G service. The phone could be used for any provider and could be used with a contract or month to month. This device would render the iPod Touch useless and return the iPods to the music devices they currently are. The new iPhone would give consumers a lot of choice. I'm one of those who uses Skype more than I do my cell phone. It's time to start the post cell phone world.
Anyone who thinks these strings are for public "testing" purposes is seriously fooling themselves. Why even build for the public at all? It'd be all to easy to generate separate builds without those strings inside if they wanted to keep things tight lipped but the hype is much better so they do it.
Then the iPhone WiFi would just be an iPod touch with a different name and form factor. It could be a possibility, but it would just make for a thicker iPod touch.