Apple Confirms iPhone 5 Release Date as Sept. 12, 2012

Apple has just sent out out press invites for a September 12th event that has the number 5 in the shadow of the date. While the invite does not specifically state that the iPhone 5 will be announced, considering the dozens of leaks leading up to the event, it’s all but certain.

Apple event announced for Sept 12Indeed, if the iPhone 5 is little more than the incremental innovations we’ve been hearing about — a longer, thinner screen, a smaller dock connector, and no NFC (near-field communications, which would allow you to pay in stores with your phone) — it may be a prudent move for the company to deflate the bubble of speculation a little.

If you’re already shuddering at the thought of paying out for the new device, Apple can help you offset the cost by offering you up to $345/£300 for your device, depending on its condition.

Related: Apple Will Pay You To Recycle Your iPhone 4S [up to $345]

An Artistic Look At the Future Of The iPhone5

What are you expecting to see in the iPhone 5? Let us know in the comments.