Apple website confirms iPhone 5 will support LTE networks

With Apple’s own search engine all but confirming the ‘iPhone 5’ name and the release of a new iPod touch and iPod Nano, another Apple website placeholder has revealed that the new smartphone will in fact be LTE compatible.

9to5mac spotted the revealing URL, which at the time of writing doesn’t point to a valid page on Apple’s website. However, it will likely display information relating to the technology, specifications and support Apple will provide for 4G LTE networks across the world when the device is announced later today.

Following the launch of the new iPad, all eyes have been on Apple to release a 4G smartphone. However, with different operators utilising different bands in the 4G spectrum, it wasn’t known if Apple would be able to support them all at launch.

It’s still in the air as to which carriers Apple’s LTE iPhone 5 would support, but with rumours that it would incorporate a universal LTE chip, it would be able offer coverage across multiple 3G and 4G bands (and operators).

Apple’s launch event is due to start at 10am PST/1pm ET/6pm BST. We will bring you the latest as it happens.