A new image of the rumoured low-cost iPhone has emerged online. Chinese blogger 7mob released a picture of the unconfirmed device, which appears to show the rear plastic casing in green.

As Digital Spy reveals citing SlashGear the blogger is known to have connections with Chinese-based factory workers linked to the device's manufacturing.

It's thought that Apple could be planning to produce a scaled-down iOS handset with cheaper parts such as a plastic shell instead of the current aluminium casing.

The move would enable Apple to break into emerging markets where uptake of the iPhone is still low. Previous reports suggest that Apple could also introduce a trade-in scheme for its handsets, to enable them to sell refurbished iPhones in emerging markets.

Several images claiming to show the device have leaked in recent months, including one showing the smartphone in white.