iPhone 5 'Lightning' dock connector leaked

iPhone 5 'Lightning' dock connector leaked
Just hours to go - who's excited?

Just hours before Tim Cook takes the stage in San Francisco to unveil the iPhone 5, more information on the sixth generation handset has made it on to the web, with new headphones on the cards.

According to 9to5Mac sources the new iPhone will come bundled with new "Earpod" headphones, as we witness Apple ditch its famous, but leaky and uncomfortable, design which has partnered previous iPhones and iPods.

A leaked image claiming to show off the "Earpods" appeared online last week, and the latest report suggests you'll be able to pick up a set for $29 (around £18) – that's if they actually exist.

iPhone 5 Earpod LEAK

Credit: 9to5Mac

Lightning fast

There's been a lot of talk regarding the dock connector on the iPhone 5, with rumours suggesting the Cupertino firm will do away with the iconic 30-pin port, in favour of a smaller 9-pin offering – something 9to5Mac sources claim will be dubbed 'Lightning'.

Apple already offers a Thunderbolt port on its Macs, so the mooted name does fit into this fruit-shaped puzzle, plus it suggests the new connection will allow for faster transfer speeds to and from the new iPhone.

The iPhone 5 release date is still currently unknown, but with the announcement of the new handset coming later today, we expect it to hit stores before the end of the month, meaning you'll be able to check out the new features for yourself very soon.

If you're wondering what you might be able to expect from the new iPhone take a look at our rumour round up video below.

From 9to5Mac

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John McCann
Global Managing Editor

John joined TechRadar over a decade ago as Staff Writer for Phones, and over the years has built up a vast knowledge of the tech industry. He's interviewed CEOs from some of the world's biggest tech firms, visited their HQs and has appeared on live TV and radio, including Sky News, BBC News, BBC World News, Al Jazeera, LBC and BBC Radio 4. Originally specializing in phones, tablets and wearables, John is now TechRadar's resident automotive expert, reviewing the latest and greatest EVs and PHEVs on the market. John also looks after the day-to-day running of the site.