iPhone Atlas is running a story about the mystery screws that can be seen on the bottom of the new iPhone 3G in some pictures including the one to the left (source: iPhone Atlas).

As some may be aware, the first generation iPhone did not have a user-replaceable battery.  This required owners to bring their iPhone into an Apple or AT&T store to have the battery replaced in the event that it actually died and could not be recharged.

Apple has not, as of yet, said wiether or not the 3G iPhone will include the ability for the end consumer to replace the battery, however the inclusion of visible screws on an Apple device is add.  All previous iPods and the current generation iPhone have a very smooth and solid design.  Not only does that “hidden screw” design help keep the look and feel of the device consistant from any viewed angle, but it also helps prevent the average consumer from opening up the device and potentially damaging it.