iOS 5.1 Beta Code Reveals iPhone 5, New iPad and Apple TV

Apple can’t keep everything a secret, as much as it would like to. This time, the secrets are leaking from its very own code. iOS 5.1 beta has been released to developers and inside it are references to some interesting devices Apple has in the pipeline. Here’s the quick rundown …

A tip of the hat goes to 9to5Mac for diving deep into the code and getting the scoop. Inside the iOS 5.1 beta are references to new Apple devices, specifically:

• iPhone 5: The iPhone 4’s code reference name is the iPhone 3,1, and the iPhone 4S is referenced as iPhone 4,1. iOS 5.1 beta references an iPhone 5,1, which undoubtedly means there will be some major revision to the device as a whole. The only rumor I’m going to stick with this time around is that a 4-inch screen is more than likely.
• iPad 3: We all know the iPad 3 is already in production, but matching references in iOS 5.1 mean there already are prototypes running iOS 5 in Apple’s labs with retina displays. Tantalizing!
• iPad 2 Revision: Nobody is sure what the new iPad 2 code reference relates to, but speculation ranges from a dual-carrier 3G version, a Sprint 3G version or simply a minor revision that represents a dichotomy between the iPad 3 and the iPad 2, which I’ve speculated will be sold side by side.
• New Apple TV: Believe it or not, the ‘new’ Apple TV isn’t so new anymore. It made its appearance in September in 2010, which makes it more than a year old and very much due for an update. Since the device shows up in the iOS 5.1 beta, we can be sure the new Apple TV will also run iOS, but likely also will be a completely new device, potentially sporting an A5 or A6 CPU, enhanced connectivity and maybe even Siri. The reference key is AppleTV 3,1, so like the iPhone 5, it looks as though it will be a solid departure from the past device.

What does that mean for 2012? It means the rise of iOS devices is coming fast and furious. It’s clear Apple knows exactly where it should focus its efforts — the iMac and MacBook lines are getting nary an update, save rumors about a 15-inch MacBook Air.

For the channel, Apple’s changes — and why we should care — all circle back around to MDM. But here’s some food for thought: The VAR Guy disclosed to me that during Varnex 2011, he saw an individual walking around with the tiny Apple TV in his hand. For those who don’t know, the Apple TV can be used with an iPhone or iPad to mirror its display on an HDTV over WiFi. If Apple is serious about reaching out to the SMB, it could be possible the new Apple TV features improved mirroring capabilities, plus a built-in ability to play Keynote presentations or something similar. Get excited.