Apple requests return of lost iPhone prototype

Gizmodo said Monday evening it is making arrangements to return an errant device that is believed to be a prototype of the next iPhone, following a request from Apple's legal department, which Gizmodo calls verification of the device's authenticity.

The tech blog site had revealed early Monday that it was in possession of a device it concluded to be a prototype of the unreleased and as-yet-unannounced iPhone 4G. The next-generation device was reportedly found last month on the floor of a San Francisco Bay Area bar after it was apparently left by a customer identified as an Apple employee.

An examination of the device, which was initially masked in the body of an iPhone 3G, pretty much convinced Gizmodo editors that it was genuine. The ultimate evidence, according to Brian Lam, editorial director at Gizmodo parent Gawker Media, came in the form of a terse letter he received later Monday from Apple's legal chief:

Dear Mr. Lam,

It has come to our attention that Gizmodo is currently in possession of a device that belongs to Apple. This letter constitutes a formal request that you return the device to Apple. Please let me know where to pick up the unit.

Sincerely,
Bruce Sewell
Senior Vice President & General Counsel
Apple Inc.

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