Apple iPhone 4G revealed - genuine or hoax?

[zappaDPJ]

This is either the tech scoop of the century or an elaborate and rather clever hoax to boost their web presence.

http://gizmodo.com/5520164/this-is-apples-next-iphone

[Rik]

Mmm. Can't decide which, Giz.

[Technical Ben]

Aparently it's totally true. Apple are asking/have asked for it back. Reporters get into a little bit of trouble, as Apple will now give them the cold sholder in any news releases. Finally, the guy who lost it will get his knuckles rapped by a ruler. It's not out till june, but as it's not far away, I doubt it's a concept model. More likely an actual final release model.

[Niall]

I find the whole thing far too convenient when it's only a few months away from release. Perfect timing at the start of a new financial year. Yeah, a lost phone, sure.

[Rik]

Surely you don't believe this might be a PR stunt to drive anticipation and, therefore, sales, Niall? 

[Glenn]

Is that to fill the hole in profits from the ipad http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/04/21/ipad_lowering_apple_gross_margins/

[Rik]

It makes you wonder, doesn't it, Glenn. Apple are not renowned for slim profit margins.

[Tacitus]

For some sensible comment on the story it might be worth reading Roughly Drafted and John Gruber's take on the legal implications.

Apple don't need to sue since it could be a criminal matter under Californian law.

[Rik]

Interesting reading, Tac. 

[Gary]

It makes you wonder, doesn't it, Glenn. Apple are not renowned for slim profit margins.

Taking of profits, Rik. Apple has reported a 90% increase in net profit to $3.1bn (£2bn) for Q1, with revenues up 49% to $13.5bn (£8.7bn).

[Rik]

We definitely should have bought shares.

[Gary]

We definitely should have bought shares.

I know 

[Technical Ben]

It's not like Apple to leak stuff. So probably an honest mistake. People are usually the weakest link in the chain.

[Gary]

It's not like Apple to leak stuff. So probably an honest mistake. People are usually the weakest link in the chain.

I would agree, Apple are tighter than a very tight thing that way. Its the not knowing that hooks people with them.