iPhone 5 Fakes Are Already Available in China Thanks to Speedy Counterfeiters

This morning’s report that claims the iPhone 5 will now launch a month later than its expected September release will be a huge blow to some, but as long as you’re not too concerned about having your device made by Apple, you can get an iPhone 5 today in China.

Despite having no idea what Apple’s official iPhone 5 might look like yet, counterfeiters are already spawning fake devices based on those case designs that have recently been circulating. One particular device, discovered by GizChina, boasts a JAVA based operating system, MP3 and MP4 playback, and even Wi-Fi capability for just $108 USD.

This particular device is just 7mm thick — 2mm thinner than the iPhone 4 — and sports that tapered edge design that was revealed by those case leaks. It is advertised as an “iPhone 5’ and was purchased from the Chinese online store Taobao.

I certainly don’t agree with the business model of these iPhone counterfeiters, nor do I suggest you purchase one of their creations, however, I am impressed by the speed of their “iPhone 5’ release. Also, I actually quite admire the design of their device. It has a few flaws here and there, but if Apple’s official iPhone 5 is similar in shape and in thickness, I’ll be one happy customer.

This isn’t the first time counterfeiters have created their own Apple-like devices. Fake iPhone 4s were produced before the device’s launch based on the device that famously turned up in a bar. We’ve also seen knockoff MacBook Airs and iPads.

What do you think of this iPhone 5 knockoff?

• Via MacRumors

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