A very rare prototype model of the first Apple iPhone is up for auction on eBay, quickly hitting bits in the five figures and drawing media interest.
While prototype Apple gear is seen now and then on auction websites, this model is definitely different. According to the listing and other materials, it is a 2006-era prototype model. It runs a very early version of Apple's iOS (or iPhone OS then) to test the prototype hardware.
In addition to the special software, each radio signal bands are etched into the device's rear housing. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and each of the original iPhone's four supported GSM bands are accounted for.
The seller has noted the differences between this rare prototype and the mass produced first generation iPhone, which was released in 2007:
Via: 9to5Mac
In addition to the special software, each radio signal bands are etched into the device's rear housing. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and each of the original iPhone's four supported GSM bands are accounted for.
The seller has noted the differences between this rare prototype and the mass produced first generation iPhone, which was released in 2007:
At the time of writing, the highest bit stands at $12,500.00 after 66 bids.
- Rare Apple engineer sticker which says Ver 1.1.1
- Running multiple testing software, including OS X and Earthbound (not the normal OS 1)
- Used by Apple for testing to make the original iPhone
- Circa 2006. Before the original iPhone release date (mid 2007)
- Different weight. Much heavier at 144.5 grams (normal iphone 2g is 135 gram)
- No FCC etchings at the back
- Bell icon for the mute button
- Complete different internals, including different battery, different wifi etc
- Excellent investment
- Early prototype
- Hand made in Cupertino, California. (not mass produced in China like normal iPhones)
- Secretly code named Project Purple (at this stage of development, the "iPhone" name was unknown)
- EXTREMLY RARE. Only a few are known to exist
- Highly sought after
Via: 9to5Mac
