iPhone 5 Release Date: Android and Blackberry Users Prepare to Convert

By CP News Briefs, Friday, September 30, 2011

Apple customers are waiting for the launch of the iPhone 5, which is rumored to be unveiled at an event on Oct. 4. However, it has emerged that it is not only Apple followers who are waiting for the device, but Android and Blackberry owners are also watching developments closely and may be tempted to switch allegiances.

According to an independent study by InMobi, 41 percent of mobile consumers in North America plan to buy an iPhone 5.

That number includes 52 percent of BlackBerry users, as well as 27 percent of Android device owners.

Most customers have cited expectations that the iPhone 5 will bring "improved battery life, increased processing speed, higher-quality screen resolution, and stronger phone service."

If the next iPhone is only an upgraded version of the iPhone 4, however, InMobi's study indicates that less than 15 percent of mobile customers would be likely to buy it.

That percentage, worryingly for RIM, is much higher among Blackberry users though. With a whopping 28 percent saying they would still switch even if the next release was just an updated iPhone 4.

Analysts are expecting Apple to unveil the iPhone 5 at its Oct. 4 media event, which will be held for the first time at Apple HQ in Cupertino, Calif.

New Apple CEO Tim Cook will host the product announcement for the first time since Steve Jobs stepped down in August.

Despite all the rumors swirling around the release of the iPhone 5, and with thousands preparing to buy the next generation device already, Apple has not actually ever officially stated it is even planning a release of another iPhone.

That fact, however, has been largely ignored by analysts, who predict a new iPhone on Oct. 4 will pitch a larger screen, a thinner back, a faster processor, an 8 megapixel camera, as well as a super-technological virtual “Assistant” app.