According to iLounge’s “releiable source”, Apple is currently working on a newly designed glass back for the next generation iPhone 5. They also note a possible new Smart Cover for the iPad 3 that would protect the rear.

The iPhone 5 has been rumored to be releasing later this year, with Apple looking in to using a glass or ceramic material for the rear on the next generation device.

Despite the well-established “aluminum-backed iPhone 5” rumors that have continued to circulate since the iPhone 4 was released, Apple is nonetheless continuing to experiment with glass and ceramic rear shells for a future iPhone model. The upshot is that the new design would be like the iPhone 4, but thinner, thanks to Corning’s stronger Gorilla Glass 2 and the further reduction of internal components.

Now that the iPad 3 has been officially unveiled, let the iPhone 5 rumors begin!

[via macrumors, iLounge]