Apple patent offers clues to "iPhone"
updated 12:20 pm EDT, Fri September 8, 2006
Apple patent offers clues
Apple's recent patent application for its "multi-functional handheld device" represents the fundamental basis and technology behind the company's much-rumored cell phone efforts, according to American Technology Research senior analyst Shaw Wu. "We believe the device will have a candy bar form factor (as opposed to flip phone) with iPod like functionality, including a clickwheel," Wu wrote in a research note obtained by MacNN. "We remain upbeat on Apple's prospects in building a material cell phone business given its strong brand name, loyal customer base, and unique user experience helped by its clickwheel technology and end-to-end business model." Wu predicts a $2 billion opportunity for Apple, should the company gain just 1 percent share in a billion unit market. The firm maintains its "buy" rating on Apple shares with a $91 price target.
classic type cell-phone?
09/08, 07:02pm reply
using the click-wheel will they emulate a classic (rotary) dial-type phone?
slammer
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Sep 2006
Flip
09/08, 08:09pm reply
If it were a flip phone, it could have the click wheel AND a numpad.
ccsccs7
Mac Enthusiast
Joined: Nov 2001
slider?
09/09, 01:38am reply
Maybe a cool slider for when you want the numpad. Most of the time you don't -- you either are answering or calling out of your addressbook.
I hope it is a GSM phone.
chadpengar
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Oct 2001
touch screen
09/09, 09:41pm reply
all the way...(?)
chotty
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jan 2003
Carrier
09/10, 06:05pm reply
What carrier is it going to have? (Nextel, Verizon, US Cellular, Cingular, Tracfone???)
mr_macbook
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Sep 2006
keypad design
09/10, 06:09pm reply
I think it would be cool to have the scroll wheel be integrated underneath the numpad somehow.
mr_macbook
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Sep 2006