One of the key differences between the iPod touch and iPhone, apart from hardware, is that the iPod touch lacks the ability to make phone calls or go online via 3G. Apart from that both devices run on identical operating systems and both have access to pretty much all the same apps, which is why the idea of a 3G capable iPod touch is probably not a stretch of the imagination.
There have been rumors in the past that suggested that Apple may be preparing a 3G capable iPod touch, and with all the iPhone 5 rumors making its way around the internet, AppleNApps has brought the spotlight back onto the iPod touch with their report.
After talking with multiple people over the past few weeks, we had a lengthy chat with one person who gave us great news about the next iPod Touch (though they would like to remain anonymous). We’ve used this person in the past, but they did qualify their remarks, saying that the iPod Touch changes should make it, but there’s no guarantee the changes will be ready for fall. The 3G iPod Touch idea intrigued us so much back in July, and we’ve been trying to find one of our contacts who can give some credence to the idea. A few have declined to comment, while others honestly have no idea, but the source for this report says that Apple is indeed working on a 3G iPod Touch. Apple is intent on announcing the device during their September event which they usually save for their iPod line, but will include the iPhone as well this year.
The report also suggests that Apple has been working with various carriers to introduce various data-only plans for the 3G iPod touch, similar to the plans for the iPad, although we don’t see why they can’t use the same plans. The report above also suggests that there is no guarantee that this change will be ready for fall, which seems like a pretty neat way to cover their bases should they be proved wrong. Then again with all rumors, they’re best taken with a grain of salt. With three weeks left until October, the rumored launch of the iPhone 5, I guess we will find out if these rumors hold true!
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