Analyst: Apple Launching 2 iPhones in September

Analysts and rumors are both claiming Apple will be releasing its next generation iPhone in September, but now Deutsche Bank’s Chris Whitmore is now claiming the company will release two new models. Instead of just an iPhone 4S or iPhone 5, he expects Apple will be releasing both.

The iPhone 5, Fortune reports, will roll out as Apple’s high-end model, while the iPhone 4S will launch as the company’s lower end phone.

2 iPhones in September? Maybe.Analyst sees two new iPhones in Apple’s future

“With Nokia and RIMM struggling, the time is right for Apple to aggressively penetrate the mid range smart-phone market (i.e. $300-500 category) to dramatically expand its [total addressable market] and market share,” Mr. Whitmore said.

The idea that Apple might release two new iPhone models sounds enticing, but doesn’t fit with the company’s usual process where the previous model becomes the low-priced entry level option. Currently, the iPhone 3GS sells for US$49, while the iPhone 4 is Apple’s full price phone.

Offering a new iPhone model that could be sold unlocked for about the same price as subsidized phones, however, could give Apple a foothold in countries where customers prefer to buy unsubsidized phones but can’t afford to pay what Apple is asking for an unlocked iPhone 4. In the U.S., an unlocked 16GB iPhone 4 sells for $649, and the 32GB model sells for $749.

That market, according to Mr. Whitmore could “drive significantly greater penetration” for Apple into an additional 98 countries.

Apple hasn’t said when it will next update the iPhone, although most analysts expect the company to release new models this September.

Apple is currently trading at $329.45, up 3.10 (0.95%).