Do iPhone 3G’s screws indicate a user-replaceable battery?

As previously noted, Apple’s new “guided tour” of the iPhone 3G demonstrates operation of the AppStore and a slew of already-detailed functionality. Closer inspection of the video has unveiled a few more revelations.

A look at the bottom of the new iPhone 3G during the video reveals new audio components on the bottom of the iPhone 3G. The left side grill is the speaker and the right hand side is the microphone. Apple purports “greatly enhanced” audio from the new hardware.

Another hardware change: two small screws on the bottom of the device on either side of the standard docking connector. This is a stark design change from a company that is known for hiding screws from sight on handheld devices like the former iPhone and iPods. As of this moment the is unknown why the screws are exposed, though some have speculated that removal and replacement of the battery and other components may be possible (the first-generation iPhone was criticized user-inaccessible battery. Positioning of the screws indicates that, when they are removed, the iPhone 3G may open up like a clam for easy access to the inside.

During the software demonstration segment of the video, the view of the iTunes AppStore reveals an AOL instant messenger application that is available for free and was originally demonstrated on a March 6, 2008 demo.

The longer guided tour video also points out is a new feature of the iPhone OS 2.0 software: while on an airplane that supports Wi-Fi access you can turn Wi-Fi on without leaving Airplane mode. Cellular and Bluetooth connectivity remain disabled when this option is invoked.

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