As specialized website MacRumors reports, since the first prototype of the upcoming iPhone 6 was leaked by Japanese magazine MacFan last March a number of photos, videos and even physical models of the new Apple mobile system appeared over the web that were based on the alleged design drawings.
Most of them were created by specialized Apple websites and Apple fans for their online audience. Now designer Marin Hajek has created his own set of 3D files for a similar model, which he is selling for $25 on Turbosquid.com to anyone who, for “editorial purposes” wants to see what the new, rumoured, iPhone 6 actually feels like in their hands.
The 3D file can be downloaded in 3D Studio (.3ds) format or as .obj and .stl files for 3D printing at home. Those who do not have access to a 3D printer but still want to get their hands on the alleged iPhone 6 shape before it is officially launched can download a version fit for Shapeways’ 3D printing service.
Having a physical mockup rather than a virtual one seems to be particularly useful for this latest iteration of the new iPhone as it is the very first time that Apple is reported to be departing from the concept of making its phone as easy as possible to use with one hand, as a result of focusing more on a wider screen area, like its competitors have been doing.
While “unofficially” leaking photos of prototypes ahead of official announcements has sometimes proven to be a valid marketing strategy, perhaps leaking the 3D model may in the future become an equally valid crowd-sourced R&D strategy for large tech companies as well.
