Here are the latest Apple-related rumors from the blog-o-sphere:

“Currently under development, traces of Apple’s new iPhone and iOS software have begun surfacing in app usage logs. Developers have contacted The Next Web to share references to a new iPhone identifier and the next big operating system update for the smartphone and tablet devices: iOS 7.” — “The Next Web” (www.thenextweb.com)

“Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co will soon start making microchips for Apple as the US tech giant reduces manufacturing contracts with its South Korean rival Samsung, reports said Wednesday.” — “AFP” (http://tinyurl.com/byovdtm)

“Intel (INTC) is indeed working on a service that will look to change the way cable TV is consumed, but it is running into some of the same problems Apple (AAPL) has seen in its efforts to turn the TV business on its head. The Wall Street Journal reports that Intel is currently in negotiations with media companies to discuss plans to become a “virtual cable operator,” selling TV channel bundles that would be delivered to users over the Internet. The company is also pitching the idea of offering TV channels outside of bundles, however, and this is where it is running into problems.” — “BGR” (www.bgr.com)

“While it’s believed that Apple’s 2013 Mac lineup will feature the same designs as their late-2012 counterparts, they are set to include a range of updated internal features and hardware. We’ve learned about one such chipset change – the inclusion of 802.11ac networking – providing Apple’s updated Mac range with super-fast WiFi connectivity.” — “The Next Web” (www.thenextweb.com)

“Is Apple plotting a route to a Waze acquisition? Rumours on the road point to yes” — “TechCrunch” (www.techcrunch.com)

“Apple is said to be planning to offer customers more choices with the launch of its next-generation iPhone, including multiple colors and sizes, with an earlier-than-expected debut in the May-June timeframe.” — “AppleInsider” (www.appleinsider.com)