Much attention has revolves the upcoming iPad 3 with rumors that that tablet is already under production in China and might be launched soon. However, there are few blogs and portals talking about the next version of Apple’s popular smartphone, the iPhone 5.

A report by 9to5Mac, which cites a reliable source from Foxconn, claims that Apple is preparing for the production of the new version of the smartphone. The report states that the source has informed of a number of sample devices at the factory and thus it is not known as to which device will be approved for final production.

All of the devices at the factory have larger than 4 inch of screen. Some feature screens made by LG and none of the design prototypes feature the tear drop design and all larger. All the devices are different from the iPhone 4 or 4S.

The source also said that it might be possible that none of the devices available at the factory to go into final production as Apple may decide to change the design anytime. According to industry watchers, if Apple is preparing for production of the new smartphone now then it might be looking to launch the device during its WWDC event that takes place in the middle of every year.