Apple Rings Changes in Mobile Phone Market

IT is a mobile phone, MP3 player and handheld computer all in one and Apple hopes it will conquer the world.

Technology industry analysts believe the hybrid device, called the iPhone, will pose a huge challenge to the established mobile phone producers.

Although Nokia, Motorola and others already offer handsets that include MP3 players and other services, industry insiders believe the power of the Apple brand could give the iPhone the edge.

U.S. software expert Paul Mercer said: ‘Apple is about to touch off a nuclear war. The Nokias and Motorolas will have to respond.’ Details of the iPhone’s launch are due to be announced today at the Apple Macworld Expo in San Francisco. Rumours point to an initial release of two iPhone models: a 4GB version capable of holding up to 1,000 songs and an 8GB model. The price for the 4GB model has been forecast at around Pounds 200 for the UK and Pounds 350 for the 8GB version.

The mobiles which it is believed will have a chocolate bar shape are expected to be available in the U.S.

by the spring. The UK launch may be delayed until the autumn.

The iPhone is one of a range of new devices being developed by Apple in a bid to extend its iPod brand away from simply being a digital jukebox.

A video version of the iPod was released last year along with a movie and TV series download service, while a bigger widescreen version is on the way.

The company is also working on a set-top box for the home that will link the household computer to the TV set. This service will be known as ‘iTV’ not to be confused with the British commercial broadcaster with a very similar name.

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