2nd gen iPhone

Goldman Sachs published a new note for its clients indicating that, based on its checks with industry contacts, Apple will be delivering a second-generation iPhone and a second-generation Apple TV in 2008. Saying that the second-generation iPhone is in the "final design phase," analyst David Bailey claims that the new device will have a similar form-factor to the current model, but may sport different aesthetics and might include 3G capabilities. In addition to the significant new iteration, Bailey thinks that Apple might release a minor revision earlier in 2008 with expanded memory.

Bailey also believes that Apple will revise the Apple TV in 2008, potentially adding an LCD display to the unit.

According to AppleInsider, Bailey also sees a full refresh of the Mac line in 2008, though details on a subnotebook are sketchy. "Apple will refresh its entire Mac line-up throughout 2008, but information about the potential launch of a subnotebook was scarce, with one supplier saying that the product may be pushed out, citing possible design issues," said Bailey.

Goldman Sachs is predicting strong holiday sales for Apple's iPods and Macs, and remains confident about the Cupertino-based company's forthcoming products in 2008.

A 3G version of the iPhone is guaranteed for 2008, AT&T's head has told a meeting of the Churchill Club in Santa Clara, California. "You'll have it next year," said CEO Randall Stephenson. The executive would not elaborate on how fast the new phone would be, but AT&T currently operates 3G through an HSPA network, theoretically capable of speeds up to 3.6Mbps. Stephenson is also refusing to comment on whether or not it will cost the same as the current $399 iPhone, except to say that Apple CEO Steve Jobs "will dictate what the price of the phone is."

Steve Jobs has in the past told the press that 3G was highly sought-after, but that no iPhone would have it until battery life was not as severely affected. "So as you know, the handset battery life used to be 5-6 hours for GSM," Jobs explained at a London Q&A, "but when we got to 3G they got cut in half. Most 3G phones have battery lives of 2-3 hours [of talk time]." The company is shooting for a minimum of five hours of 3G before the iPhone makes the switch.

by MacNN Staff