iPhone 5 wish list - 20 new features we want the most (photos) - TechRepublic

iPhone 5 wish list – 20 new features we want the most (photos)

  • Screen_shot_2011-08-12_at_2.16.42_PM_1_610x472.png

    \n\tAs usual, Apple is keeping the iPhone rumor mills working at a fast and furious pace. Some new features we know from details of iOS 5, many are based on wide-spread rumors, and others are just fantasy. So here we go with this list of what the ideal iPhone 5 features we’d like to see, as compiled by David Carnoy of CNET’s Fully Equipped. Also see CNET’s iPhone 5 rumor roundup.

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    \n\tCredit: MacRumors commissioned this mock-up based on alleged iPhone 5 case schematics. MacRumors.com

  • Enhanced voice control

    \n\tRumors have been circulating for a while that voice controls are coming to the iPhone. But when? Certainly no one would complain if you were ablet to compose and send e-mails or text messages with the sound of your voice.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 70 percent

  • Micro-HDMI out

    \n\tRight now you need Apple’s $39 Digital AV to send HD video  or audio to a TV or monitor but a a built-in Micro-HDMI port, similar to the ones available in Android smartphones, would only cost a $5 cable.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 2 percent.

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Apple

  • Expandible memory

    \n\tAnother fat chance.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 1 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Kingston

  • Biometric security

    \n\tTaking security to the next level where you can unlock your phone with a finger swipe instead of a password.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 25 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Apple

  • NFC-enabled (near field communication technology)

    \n\tWith better security, there’s a better chance that you could use your iPhone to make payments like a credit card. You could also use it as a car key.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 35 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Visa

  • More memory

    \n\tHow about a 64-GB version?

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 50 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: iLounge.com

  • Improved home screen and notifications system

    \n\tiOS 5 promises a more customizable home screen, a “real” dashboard, and a better notifications system. iPhones have been falling short of Android devices in this area.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 100 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Apple

  • Better cloud-computing support

    \n\tThis is coming on iCloud this fall. No videos yet but you can mirror your music library, regardless of the origin, for $25 per year.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 100 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Apple

  • Video chat (FaceTime) over cellular network

    \n\tFaceTime works on Wi-Fi on iPhone 4 and it looks like you will be able to use it on a cellular network with iOS 5 but the carriers might be in control.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 75 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Apple

  • Flash support

    \n\tWell…

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 1 percent

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  • Larger screen

    \n\tUsers want a larger screen but they don’t want to pay the price – a bigger product with a shorter battery life.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 50 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: 9to5Mac

  • Better camera

    \n\tRumors say Sony is developing an 8 mega-pixel camera for the iPhone. Plus, iOS 5 will let you activate the camera from the lock screen and use the volume button on the side of the phone as a shutter.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 95 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: James Martin/CNET

  • Dual-core processor

    \n\tThe 1GHz A5 dual-core processor that’s in the iPad 2 will most likely power the iPhone 5. Other phone makers such as LG and Motorola are already using dual-core chips.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 100 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: Apple

  • Universal carrier support (CDMA and GSM)

    \n\tApparently, Apple already uses the Qualcomm MDM6600 chip that’s capable of running on both CDMA and GSM networks. But GSM network support is not enabled in the Verizon iPhone 4.

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    \n\tRumors say a Sprint iPhone with both networks is being tested.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 70 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: iFixit.com

  • Better battery life

    \n\tThis usually comes with a new model. iPhone 4 had a 40 percent battery life than iPhone 3GS.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 80 percent

  • Fewer failed and dropped calls

    \n\tAT&T appears to be the biggest culprit although many blame the iPhone itself. Sprint could draw off enough customers to keep the network from getting clogged.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 45 percent

  • An actual redesign

    \n\tRumors are off the charts – some suggest that Apple could use its iPad 2 design.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 50 percent

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    \n\tPhoto credit: culttofmac.com

  • 4G network compatibility

    \n\tIt will come eventually but whether now is the time is up in the air. Many think Apple hasn’t figured out how to preserve battery life while using a 4G data network.

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    \n\tChances of implementation: 50 percent

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