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]
Killian Bell is a freelance writer based in the U.K. He has an interest in all things tech and also covers Android over at CultofAndroid.com. You can follow him on Twitter via @killianbell.
