Image Credit: TechRadar

Those of you following the ins and outs of iPhone developments over the past few years will be aware of Apple’s iPhone code-naming system. Usually “N-”, where the dash represents a two digit number. iPhone 5′s code-name is “N42″, and has shown up in the system of a well-known U.S. high street chain according to one of 9to5Mac’s well placed sources. The site gained some valuable information, although none of it is entirely unexpected. However, we know the question on many of your minds’ will be if the iPhone 5 will cost more than the iPhone 4S. Turns out, it won’t.

“Here is the part codes matrix for the new iPhone launch from a source at a well-known U.S. retail chain: N42A-USA -$199, N42B-USA-$199, N42A-USA-$299, N42B-USA-$299, N42A-USA-$399, N42B-USA-$399.  A + B signify black and white.” 

This happens virtually every year a new iPhone is launched. As seen above, the new model simply replaces the current flagship phone, while the previous generations get bumped down to 8GB and sold for $100 cheaper. You can expect the iPhone 4 to replace the 3GS, and the iPhone 4S to replace the 4. No details are yet clear on UK or European launches, but, the Cupertino-based company normally released the phone in 12 countries on launch day, usually including Canada, UK, France, Germany, Japan and Australia.

As it stands, we’re expecting that pre-orders will go live soon after the iPhone 5 is announced on September 12th and that it’ll be in stores or shipped to your home by the following Friday (21st). We’ll let you know more as soon as we hear/read anything.

Via: 9to5Mac