By Lori Zimmer, Source: Inhabitat

Since 2009, Apple has been working on creating an even more affordable iPhone for its millions of users. To keep the new model wallet-friendly, the lower-end smart phone would not necessarily skimp on operating systems, but would instead be made partially from recycled materials. With the additional substitution of a cheaper polycarbonate plastic outer shell, the more affordable phone would set customers back a relatively low $99 to $149.

Apple hopes that its new plight to create a more affordable iPhone will put it back at the top of the smart phone market, in reaction to an influx of comparable devices by competitors. With many contender phones weighing in at a much lower price tag, Apple’s reach has fallen considerably, prompting  a drastic measure to be taken.

Although still in the works, if Apple takes the low-cost plunge, the recycled-part phones could be in the market as early as late 2013. In addition to switching from aluminum casing to cheaper polycarbonate plastic, other outwear and inner wear from disused older iPhone models can help to keep the costs lower, without affecting connectivity.

Aside from affordability, using recycled parts is a huge step for Apple to be more environmentally friendly. With new phone updates seemingly every year, many shed their old iPhones for the new models, disregarding what will become of their disused older models.

With the public’s technology obsession, it is hard to say if they’ll bite on a refurbished phone, but a $99 price tag could combat any doubt.