(CNN) -- The tiniest iPhone rumors can cause a big uproar. The latest: The blog TechCrunch on Wednesday published a story claiming the next-generation iPhone will have a new connection port that's about a third the size of the one on the current model. The reaction on blogs and on Twitter has been largely negative, with commenters saying the new port -- used to charge the phone and connect it to other devices -- would render obsolete existing chargers and accessories such as speaker sets. "Every other phone manufacturer decided back in 2008 to conform to the MicroUSB standard, and that's been wonderful," one commenter, identified as Scott Ableman, wrote on the TechCrunch story. "But Apple wants people to feel they have to buy proprietary accessories from them. Don't get me wrong. I respect them as marketers and profiteers. I just hate their contempt for me as a customer."
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The next-generation iPhone will have a smaller connection port, according to a report
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A different-size port would mean existing iPhone charging cords won't work on new model
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Such a switch could save customers money if Apple switches to a standard port size
TechCrunch said its report is based on interviews with three independent manufacturers of @placeholder accessories that said the new iPhone will include a 19-pin dock instead of the current 30-pin model.