iPhone 5 Release Date: iPhone 4S Hits Japan Apple Website Early

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, October 04, 2011

The iPhone 4S has reportedly hit the Japanese Apple website ahead of schedule, Techland reported Tuesday.

A page on the site advertised the “iPhone 4S” to appear in stores starting October 14 at 8 a.m. When translated, it was unclear whether the site is accurate, and there is no indication that Apple will pull the page anytime soon.

Written under “Featured Store Events” the website says “iPhone 4S, appeared,” and includes this message to customers, “To help you choose the carrier and rate plan is right for you. Staff because it sets the iPhone, and is ready to start using before leaving the store. Learn more.”

The link provided was nonfunctioning, but the iPhone 4S was confirmed hours later at Apple’s big unveiling event taking place in California.

According to 9to5Mac.com, an image identical to the iPhone 4 appears if you add an “S” at the end of the URL of image files of the iPhone 4. If not a coincidence, it could mean Apple is releasing an iPhone 4S that has the same outward facing design as the iPhone 4.

Unveiling new hardware today, Apple’s new CEO Tim Cook took the stage.

“This is my first launch since being named CEO-I’m sure you didn’t know that,” Cook said to the audience at the event in Cupertino, California. For the first time in over a decade, former Apple CEO Steve Jobs is not spearheading an Apple event.

Cook stepped in during Jobs’ 2004 and 2009 medical leaves.

“I love Apple and consider it the privilege of a lifetime to have worked here for 14 years and to assume this role,” continued Cook. “Today we’ll remind you of the uniqueness of this company as we announce innovations from our mobile OS, to apps, services, and hardware.”

Cook mentioned that Apple has opened two new stores in China, one in Hong Kong and the other in Shanghai.