Everyone wants to know if this year’s WWDC event will be the venue Apple chooses to announce its next generation iPhone amid rumors and speculation about the device.  The iPhone 4S, released last summer, is still selling very well and there are no supply issues being reported at this time, which might be one reason for not getting our hopes up about the next iPhone’s arrival being this June.  After all, the whole purpose of WWDC is in its name:  the World Wide Developer’s Conference.  It’s for developers, the people who write all the great programs and apps we enjoy on our Apple products.  Traditionally, this time has been reserved as one meant to focus on software.

WWDC 2012

The WWDC 2012 event would be the ideal place to unveil the next evolution of the iPhone

That being said, last year marked the first summer in recent memory that didn’t deliver an iPhone announcement or update.  People have been ready for the first major overhaul in the iPhone’s design for more than a year as cutting edge Android and Windows Phone handsets with larger screens and a much thinner body style have made the iPhone look like a relic from ages past.  This year’s WWDC event would be the ideal time to unveil the evolution of the iPhone.

iPhone 5

One of many possible iPhone 5 designs from around the internet

There are plenty of reasons to think that maybe there’s something behind all these rumors.  For one thing, Asian suppliers and manufacturers are all reporting shortages of certain mobile chipsets, and have leaked Apple’s purchase of several parts that indicate a new model iPhone is on its way very soon.  Recently, the idea that Apple might make use of its exclusive connection with Liquid Metal has stirred rumors even more.  iPhone owners around the world might finally be able to rejoice at no longer having to fear dropping their devices, which are currently completely encased in glass, and having them shatter.  A Liquid Metal enclosure could be just what the doctor ordered. 

Apple, Android, and Windows Phone 7

If Apple fails to announce the iPhone 5 over the summer, it risks losing a chunk of market share

If Apple chooses not to at least announce the next iPhone over the summer, it risks losing a chunk of market share to impatient consumers in the market for sleek looking, powerful smart phones that are thinner and lighter, yet come with brilliant larger displays than any iPhone offers.  Even some die hard Apple fans and current iPhone owners have expressed their desire for an iPhone that can compare in terms of looks and weight with newer Android phones like the Galaxy Note, or Windows Phones like the Nokia Lumia 900.  Fortunately, WWDC is only a few weeks away, so we won’t be waiting long.

Written by contributing author Melonie McLaurin, who loves to blog about technology and gadgets, including the latest in high tech home security apps for iPhone recovery.  You can read more at here blog, The Apple and Paw.