The Wall Street Journal is singing a new tune Wednesday morning, reaffirming parts of an earlier BGR report suggesting that Apple is preparing to release a redesigned iPhone 5 later this year. Citing anonymous sources in Apple’s supply chain, the paper reports this morning that Apple has placed component orders with key suppliers for fifth-generation iPhone parts. As has already been widely reported, Apple’s next iPhone is said to feature an 8-megapixel camera and Qualcomm radios. The report veers away from the consensus in suggesting that Apple’s next iPhone will not share its design with the current iPhone 4, however, and will instead be thinner and lighter than the current model. BGR reported last month that Apple’s next iPhone would feature a “radical new case design” when it launches later this year. Apple reportedly plans to have 25 million next-generation iPhone handsets built in 2011, suggesting the Cupertino-based tech giant might finally come closer to meeting demand. Apple sold a record 18.65 million combined iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS units in its last fiscal quarter.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Google, MasterCard, and Citigroup are collaborating to bring mobile payments, via NFC, to Android smartphones. Citing anonymous sources, the publication writes that the new service would “allow holders of Citigroup-issued debit and credit cards to pay for purchases by activating a mobile-payment application developed for one current model and many coming models of Android phones.” The report also notes that users of the mobile payment service will be delivered “targeted ads or discount offers” — which will be sold by Google. Ed McLaughlin, Chief Emerging Payments Officer at MasterCard, provided BGR with the following statement:

We are aware of the speculation that appeared in the Wall Street Journal today concerning our role within mobile payments with Citi and Google. However, we do not comment on market rumor or speculation. What we can tell you is that we are pleased to see great interest in NFC technology – it is a very high priority at MasterCard – and we think that 2011 will be the year of mobile payments.

It is assumed that both MasterCard and Citigroup will profit from the venture by dividing the fees assessed to retailers for accepting credit payments. Google will generate revenue from the sale of the aforementioned, targeted adverts and coupons. The purported system is expected to be released sometime “this year.”

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As long as we’ve heard rumors of a Verizon iPhone, we’ve also heard rumors that a lighter, smaller, cheaper iPhone was in the works behind closed doors in Cupertino. Sticking to the theme of constantly rehashing rumors until they come true, The Wall Street Journal reported over the weekend that Apple is indeed working on a bite-sized iPhone that will soon become a reality. Codenamed “N97,” the new iPhone will be half the size of the current model and could be available for as little as $49 on contract. It may include a “voice navigation” feature as well, providing a more flushed-out catalog of voice commands. We’re also starting to see a variety of designers issue mockups of the device, which would certainly shake up the mobile industry and spell further trouble for Apple’s competition. If The Journal’s report is accurate, however, the mockups we’ve seen thus far are likely way off base considering the rumored new iPhone model is said to feature a screen that “goes to all of the edges” of the phone. Finally, it is worth noting that an iPhone of this size would likely have to do away with the iPhone’s current home button configuration, a sentiment in line with our exclusive report from last month.

Read [WSJ report] Read [mockup]

According to the Wall Street Journal‘s sources, Apple’s next iPad is already in production. People “familiar with the matter” have chimed in and claimed that the new iPad will be much thinner and lighter than the existing model. That’s not all as it looks like a front-facing video camera will make its way to the device, if you didn’t believe it already. Topping the list? More memory (1GB of RAM, we’d wager) and a more powerful graphics processor. Unfortunately it seems the display won’t be changing much as far as the resolution is concerned as it’s being reported to be the same 1024×768 resolution. Last but not least, it’s claimed that the new iPad will be available on AT&T and Verizon Wireless, though T-Mobile and Sprint won’t have the honor of retailing the tablet.

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According to The Wall Street Journal, AT&T will be releasing its flagship Android device — the Motorola ATRIX 4G — on March 6th, with pre-orders beginning on February 13th. The company directly cites AT&T as the source of its information and goes on to note that the device will retail for $199.99 on-contract (just north of the $149.99 we had hoped for). The report also states that Ma’ Bell will be bundling the handset with that snazzy laptop-dock for $499.99; the laptop will sell for $499.99 if purchased separately. There you have it. AT&T’s first, legitimate flagship Android device. Now… who’s buying one?

UPDATE: AT&T has made the pricing official; the full press release is after the jump.

Thanks, Scott!

AT&T Announces the World’s Most Powerful Smartphone, the Motorola ATRIX 4G, Will Be Available for Preorder on Feb. 13

Unique line of Accessories, Including the Motorola Laptop Dock, Available with Bundled Pricing

Key Facts

• AT&T* begins pre-sales for Motorola ATRIX™ 4G on Feb. 13
• Motorola ATRIX 4G, powered by the Android 2.2 platform, available exclusively for AT&T customers for $199.99 with a two-year service agreement.
• Motorola ATRIX 4G is expected to be available from AT&T and select retail channels for customers by March 6 or earlier.
• AT&T will offer bundled pricing for the Motorola ATRIX 4G and the Motorola Laptop Dock.

4G Portfolio
AT&T is the leader in smartphones, and expects to widen that lead in 2011. In January, AT&T committed to an industry-leading Android portfolio in the U.S. in 2011 and said it plans to offer two 4G smartphones in the first quarter. An industry first, the Motorola ATRIX 4G is the leading edge of more than 20 advanced, 4G devices AT&T plans to deliver in 2011. AT&T has completed the deployment of HSPA+ to virtually 100 percent of its mobile broadband network, which enables 4G speeds when combined with enhanced backhaul.

Motorola ATRIX™ 4G
The Motorola ATRIX™ 4G Android 2.2 smartphone will be offered exclusively by AT&T and is the world’s most powerful smartphone. Featuring a 2×1 GHz dual-core processor for a total of 2 GHz of processing power, a unique webtop application, the world’s first qHD display, and Adobe flash player, the, ATRIX 4G delivers a remarkable combination of application processing power with 4G speed capability and a high-resolution qHD display, a first for the industry.

It will be complemented by breakthrough accessories that include a revolutionary, super-thin Motorola Laptop Dock — for which ATRIX 4G is the “engine” — and the Motorola HD Multimedia Dock that uses ATRIX 4G’s HDMI video output capabilities and processing power to enable a revolutionary browsing, application and media experience.

AT&T will offer two special packages for customers who choose to purchase ATRIX 4G in addition to these unique accessories. The first combines ATRIX 4G and the Motorola Laptop Dock for a promotional price of $499.99 after a two-year service contract and $100 mail-in-rebate after subscription to Data Pro smartphone data plan and tethering add on. Customers who choose to purchase the Motorola Laptop Dock separately pay $499.99. AT&T is also offering an Entertainment Access Kit for ATRIX customers which includes the Motorola HD Multimedia Dock, a Bluetooth® keyboard and mouse, and a remote control for $189.99.

Motorola ATRIX 4G will also include AT&T Mobile Hotspot service built into the smartphone, allowing users to connect additional Wi-Fi-enabled devices.

AT&T U-verse® TV customers will be able to manage their DVR recordings – and U-verse customers with a qualifying TV plan can download and watch hit TV shows – right from their ATRIX 4G handset using the U-verse Mobile application. In addition, any ATRIX 4G user, whether or not they have U-verse TV at home, can still enjoy a variety of video options – including live TV – with the new U-verse Live TV application, preloaded and available for $9.99 a month.

For more information, visit www.att.com/atrix4G. For photos and more information about presales for ATRIX 4G, visit www.att.com/mobilephones-news.

Quotes
“Motorola ATRIX 4G stole the show at the Consumer Electronics Show in January and we’re delivering ATRIX 4G and its truly innovative line of accessories for our customers very soon,” said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “Any smartphone customer looking for the most powerful and innovative solution on the market has to consider the ATRIX 4G.”

“Today consumers use their smartphones to stay constantly connected to the information that matters to them most. The Motorola ATRIX 4G along with our webtop application and innovative docks enable a truly mobile computing experience never before possible on a smartphone,” said Alain Mutricy, senior vice president, portfolio and product device management, Motorola Mobility.

1. Mobile broadband coverage is not available in all areas. 4G speeds delivered by HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. Will be available in limited areas. Availability increasing with ongoing backhaul deployment. Learn more at att.com/network.

2. Motorola ATRIX 4G: Requires a minimum data service starting at $15/month. Two-year voice agreement required. Qualified customers only. Motorola ATRIX 4G is configured to work only with the wireless services provided by AT&T. Early termination fee of up to $325. Price of ATRIX 4G and Motorola Laptop Dock package is before $100 mail-in-rebate AT&T Promotion card & with 2-yr DataConnect agreement is $599.99. Allow 60 days for fulfillment. Card valid for 120 days wherever major credit cards accepted. May be used to pay wireless bill. Not redeemable for cash & cannot be used at ATMs or gas pumps. Card request must be postmarked by 4/20/11. Must be a customer for 30 consecutive days to receive Card. Some restrictions & other charges apply. See terms at store or att.com/wirelessrebate.

3. Laptop Dock – Firefox browser use with AT&T Mobile Broadband requires Tethering Plan.

4. Mobile Hotspots and Tethered devices require at a minimum a DataPro Tethering Plan. Devices connected to a Mobile Hotspot or tethered to the ATRIX 4G use data from your DataPro Tethering Plan. Tethering Plans are not unlimited and significant charges may be incurred if the included data allowance is exceeded. Performance may vary depending on the number of devices connected and other factors.

5. Geographic and service restrictions apply to AT&T U-verse services. Call or go to www.att.com/u-verse to see if you qualify. Download and watch capability available for select content and requires select devices, Wi-Fi connection, and qualifying U-verse TV plan or monthly subscription fee. Standard data charges may apply. AT&T U-verse Live TV requires compatible device, eligible data plan, and mobile broadband service. Service not available in all areas. Programming subject to blackout restrictions. Data rates apply.

6. Price established by AT&T for AT&T-owned retail outlets. Prices may vary at independent retailers.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

Read [WSJ]

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Facebook founder and CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, has signed the Giving Pledge, committing to donate the majority of his fortune to charitable organizations. The Pledge, which asks its signers to give away the lion’s share of their wealth during their lifetime, was organized by Microsoft founder Bill Gates and Wall Street mogul Warren Buffet. Other notable signatories of the pact include: Oracle CEO Larry Ellison, New York mayor Michael Bloomberg, AOL co-founder Steve Case, and film director George Lucas.

Mr. Zuckerberg, who has been quoted as saying wealth is both an “advantage” and a “responsibility,” made his first sizable donation of $100 million to New Jersey’s Newark Public School system this past September. ”There’s so much that needs to be done, it would be better to start now,” said the CEO in a prepared video.

Although his company’s valuation is based on a future IPO, Mr. Zuckerberg’s net worth is estimated at $6.9 billion.

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Yesterday, the Wall Street Journal made headlines by writing:

Apple Inc. plans to begin mass producing a new iPhone by the end of 2010 that would allow Verizon Wireless to sell the smartphone early next year, said people briefed by Apple.

While there is plenty of innuendo in that statement, the publication never actually stated that Verizon will be selling the iPhone. Today, the WSJ has un-muddied the proverbial waters and rewritten a portion of their previous article. The new article reads:

AT&T Inc. is about to lose its lock on the iPhone.

Apple Inc. is making a version of its iPhone that Verizon Wireless will sell early next year, according to people familiar with the matter, ending an exclusive deal with AT&T and sharpening the competition with Google Inc.-based phones.

There you have it. Your iPhone-to-Verizon rumor du jour. Bon appetit!

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The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Apple plans to begin mass producing the iPhone for CDMA carrier Verizon Wireless before the end of 2010. “Apple Inc. plans to begin mass producing a new iPhone by the end of 2010 that would allow Verizon Wireless to sell the smartphone early next year, said people briefed by Apple,” writes the WSJ. Apple, Qualcomm, and Verizon have all declined to comment on the report. The paper goes on to say that the phone would be available from Verizon Wireless in Q1 of 2011.

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The Wall Street Journal is reporting that, “Microsoft Corp. will unveil a lineup of smartphones using the revamped version of its mobile operating system on Oct. 11,” and that AT&T will begin selling said devices in early November. Microsoft does have an event planned for October 11 — Columbus Day — in New York City (which we will be at), but we’re not sure any significant announcements will be made at the open-house style event. Perhaps there is another, mysterious event planned for that day? We’ll try to dig up some more information and report back.

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Now this is more like it! The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Samsung product executive, Hankil Yoon, informed them that the Galaxy Tab tablet would retail for somewhere between $200 and $400 in the United States. Yoon did say that the final price of the device would vary depending on carrier subsidies; hopefully the two to four hundred dollar figure is unsubsidized. Sammy is predicting to ship over 10 million Tab’s next year and would like to grab at least ten percent of the tablet market share.  The report is good news, as earlier rumors had the Galaxy Tab selling in Germany for upwards of $1,000 for the 32 GB model. Mr. Yoon also said that his company is in talks with “multiple U.S. carriers.”

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If you haven’t been following the soap opera that is going on between the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and RIM let us fill you in. The UAE and KSA will halt BlackBerry data services beginning October 11th and August 5th respectively citing concerns over national security. For the most part, RIM has remained quiet noting the delicate and sensitive nature of talks at the state level. However, that all changed yesterday. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that RIM CEO Michael Lazaridis has released a statement saying, “This is about the Internet. Everything on the Internet is encrypted. This is not a BlackBerry-only issue. If they can’t deal with the Internet, they should shut it off.” We’re assuming when Mr. Lazaridis says “everything on the Internet is encrypted” he is referring to SSL and the like. The BlackBerry maker CEO continued, “We have dealt with this before. This will get resolved. And it will get resolved if there is a chance for rational discussion.” We say good for RIM. What do you think?

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The Wall Street Journal is reporting that BlackBerry maker Research In Motion has issued a statement to its customers letting them know just how secure their data is. The handset maker reminded everyone that “no one, including RIM” could access BlackBerry user data as it is encrypted without a master key, and that it would “be unable to accommodate any request” for access to the data. RIM continued, the system is designed “to exclude the capability for RIM or any third party to read encrypted information under any circumstances.” The statement comes on the heels of this weekend’s decision by the United Arab Emirates to suspend BlackBerry data services in the country due to reasons related to national security. RIM has not released an official statement regarding talks with the UAE citing the confidentiality of discussions at the government level.

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The WSJ is reporting that Taiwanese handset maker HTC saw Q2 unaudited net profits rise 33% in 2010. Some key metrics from HTC’s Q2 include: $268 million in unedited profit, earnings of $0.37/share, and revenue growth of 58% (beating out HTC’s April forecast of 50% growth). Yuanta Securities analyst, Bonnie Chang, predicts that HTC will ship over 20 million handsets this year, up from 12 million in 2009. All-in-all a very impressive Q2 for HTC.

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Anssi Vanjoki, the head of Nokia’s new Mobile Solutions unit, sat down with the Wall Street Journal on Thursday to discuss the future of Nokia’s struggling mobile phone business. In the brief but pointed interview, Vanjoki re-confirmed Nokia’s commitment to Symbian and MeeGo, a Linux-based mobile OS  jointly created Nokia and Intel. For the time being, Symbian will remain an integral part of the mobile giant’s handset lineup while MeeGo will form the base for a growing number of upcoming handheld gadgets, including its flagship N-series lineup. Nokia continues to push out handsets, with the Symbian^3-powered N8 slated for launch in Q3, while the first MeeGo devices are expected to land by the end of the year. Nokia shot down any possibility of an Android handset by claiming that it can best create value by focusing on its own hardware and software. Speaking of hardware, Vanjoki assures US consumers that Nokia has not forgotten about the US market and expects to bring additional handsets like the T-Mobile 5230 Neuron stateside. The interview sets the stage for the future of Nokia and addresses many of the weak points singled out by Ricky Cadden in his Farewell to Symbian-Guru post which announced the closing of his popular Symbian blog. Wonder if there is any correlation?

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According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Motorola and Verizon have signed off on an agreement which would see the nation’s largest carrier heavily showcase its upcoming line-up of Android smartphones. Going further, the WSJ alleges that July will see Motorola launch two new Android smartphones in conjunction with Big Red. Clearly one of the devices is going to be the Shadow, but the other is still quite the mystery. One major hurdle that Motorola faces when trying to make a name for itself as an Android powerhouse is that it does not control the rights to the Droid brand. Owned by Lucasfilm and under license to Verizon, the WSJ contends that Motorola is finding it very difficult to capitalize on the popularity of the Droid name as others such as HTC have also used the name. Regardless, the onus is on Motorola to again make a splash with yet another incredibly popular handset just as it did with the first Droid.

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