We expect the upcoming iPhone 5S to look a lot like the iPhone 5, so its biggest changes will all be internal. We’re likely to see a faster processor and better graphics, an improved camera, and if we’re really lucky, a fingerprint scanner. This purported iPhone 5S rear shell shows the changes Apple has made to the handset’s design to accommodate the new components.

Assuming this is a genuine component, the image above, obtained by NowhereElse, highlights the areas in which Apple has made changes to the iPhone 5S’s aluminum chassis. The most noticeable change is to the three screw holes on the right side of the shell that hold the logic board in place.

They appear to be situated closer to the edge of the device this time around, and not only do they indicate that Apple will make changes to the design of the logic board, but that it may become narrower, taking up less space inside the iPhone. If that’s the case, it’s likely we’ll see a bigger battery, which should mean more time in between charges.

There are also changes around the Lightning connector and home button, which seems to be a strange place for Apple to focus on; if the iPhone 5S is expected to maintain the same Lightning connector and home button, why would Apple make modifications to them?

Well, it could simply be trying to save more space, or it could mean other changes around this area — such as the introduction of the fingerprint scanner that all the rumors have been talking about.

Whatever the case may be, it’s clear Apple is looking to make some pretty significant changes to the internals of the iPhone 5S. We’ll know more about those next month when the Cupertino company holds its much-anticipated iPhone event, which is expected on September 10.

Source: NowhereElse