Apple has announced the latest version of its iPhone - the iPhone 5 - in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB versions. It’s also revealed new iPod touch and iPod nano music players, along with plans to update its iTunes music software in October.

The new 4G-equipped iPhone 5 is equipped with a 4-inch ‘Retina’ display and Apple’s iOS6 operating system running on the company’s A6 chip. It’s just 7.6mm thick, making it 18% thinner and 20% lighter than the previous model. There’s also a new ‘Lightning’ connector that differs from the previous 30-pin accessory port.

Photography features on the 8-megapixel camera include a new high-resolution panorama option and video stabilisation. There’s a renewed audio focus with a new directional microphone system, noise cancelling technology, enhanced mobile audio (subject to network support) and new earphones.

Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, said “iPhone 5 is the most beautiful consumer device that we’ve ever created. We’ve packed an amazing amount of innovation and advanced technology into a thin and light, jewel-like device with a stunning 4-inch Retina display, blazing fast A6 chip, ultrafast wireless, even longer battery life; and we think customers are going to love it.”

Consumers in the US and the UK will be able to buy the iPhone 5 from 21st September, while the new iOS 6 software will be available to existing customers from 19th September. EE - the new brand from Everything Everywhere - has confirmed that Orange and T-Mobile will be stocking the device; customers will be able to move to the 4G EE network when it launches.

UK SIM-free pricing via Apple is from £529.