The White iPhone?

The White iPhone?

When Apple announced the iPhone 4, the company also showed off a white version of the smartphone. The only issue is, that device still hasn’t launched. And given its history, Apple might wait just until the iPhone 5 launches before it finally offers the white model. If the white version of the iPhone suits a consumer’s fancy, waiting for the iPhone 5 is a good bet.

A Bigger Display?

The iPhone 4 features a 3.5-inch display, which for most consumers, works quite well. The only issue is, it’s facing off against competing devices that come with 4.3-inch displays. The Motorola Droid X is just one of many devices in that category. It’s quite possible that Apple might offer a larger, 4.3-inch iPhone 5. And if it does, consumers will rejoice.

iOS 5

Apple’s iOS 4 was one of the most important updates to the company’s mobile operating system in quite some time. It brought multitasking, an improved interface, and several other features that consumers are quite happy with. But iOS 5 will likely be even better. And one can hope that it will improve upon the work Apple put into iOS 4.

The Prospect of 4G

With the launch of the Verizon iPhone earlier this year, it seems more likely than ever that Apple will support the carrier’s 4G network. Even better, AT&T should be launching its 4G service this year, as well, which could pave the way for 4G connectivity across the board for Apple. With the help of 4G, consumers will find a lot to like, considering it offers ultra-high-speed connectivity that 3G can’t match.

An Improved Design

If nothing else, Apple has always updated the design of its smartphone each year. And this year with the iPhone 5 will likely be no different. There’s no telling what Apple has planned, but recent speculation suggests the device will have an aluminum back, rather than the glass back it currently boasts. Given Apple’s track record, expect a nice-looking smartphone in either case.

A Better Antenna

After Apple launched the iPhone 4, the company was forced to deal with complaints from customers that saw antenna strength drop when they held the device in a certain way. The issue is still present in the Verizon iPhone, as well, according to Consumer Reports. Look for Apple to address that problem and likely eradicate antenna problems in the iPhone 5.

Better Performance

The iPhone 4 offers an improved processor and memory over its predecessor. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t room for improvement. Look for the iPhone 5 to boast an even better processor and memory capabilities, which will only enhance the overall experience of using the device.

Better Multitasking

One of the biggest complaints with iOS 4 is that its multitasking implementation isn’t nearly as good as it could be. In order to switch between applications, users must double-click the iPhone 4’s home button and then choose their desired app. It’s not a full-fledged multitasking service. And in iOS 5, Apple will almost undoubtedly make it a bit more functional for those that want the multitasking they find on the desktop.

FaceTime Over Mobile Networks

Apple has been doubling down on its video-conferencing software, FaceTime. In fact, the service is now available on the iPhone 4 and Macs, and will come to the iPad 2 when that launches. The only issue is that FaceTime works over Wi-Fi. In the iPhone 5, look for Apple to announce that FaceTime will work over mobile networks. It will especially do so if 4G connectivity is brought to the device.

The Prospect of More Carriers

When Apple announced that it would be bringing its iPhone to Verizon’s network, some speculated that the company would be come completely carrier agnostic in the near future. It seems that the chances of that happening this year are greater than ever. Although Apple hasn’t said anything of the sort, the iPhone 5 might just be made available on T-Mobile and Sprint in the United States, as well as Verizon and AT&T. And if it does, those carriers’ customers will be happy they waited for the iPhone 5.