Last week it was discovered that Apple was testing 4G LTE-capable iPhones, due to a proprietary list file found in an “internal iOS test build”, which allowed the OS and hardware to work with an LTE data signal. MacRumors now reports that the same plist file found in those internal iOS test builds, has been […]
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Apple Now Testing LTE in iOS 5, Hiring More LTE Engineers

Aug 22nd 2011 by

features_connected_wifi20110426.jpgLast week it was discovered that Apple was testing 4G LTE-capable iPhones, due to a proprietary list file found in an “internal iOS test build”, which allowed the OS and hardware to work with an LTE data signal. MacRumors now reports that the same plist file found in those internal iOS test builds, has been found in iOS 5. Specifically, it’s been found in the GSM iPhone 4, and CDMA iPad 2 builds of the OS, but none of the others.

This then begs the question as to whether the previously mentioned “internal iOS test build” is a special build or if it’s a special branch of the iOS 5 betas.

Several things are gelling up around the iPhone and LTE technology. In addition to the plist finding, last week a photo was discovered which was reportedly of LTE equipment installed in an Apple store, for real world testing.

Then Forbes pointed to an Apple Job posting for field test engineers who know a thing or two about LTE network technology. So, Apple is most certainly looking into the network standard, now it’s only a matter of when Apple will include the technology in their iOS devices.

It seems highly unlikely that Apple will roll out LTE in the iPhone this year. Apple’s COO Tim Cook even made comments regarding the state of LTE chipsets, and noted that Apple would have to make design compromises they were unwilling to make to use current-generation LTE components. Next year it is expected that those chips will become smaller, less-expensive and more efficient, likely better suiting Apple’s needs. In other words, expect LTE iPhones next year.

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