It is a new week, and that means a new iPhone rumor. This week's rumor: T-Mobile will get the iPhone in 2010 after AT&T's exclusive deal with Apple comes to a close. The rumor is fueled by Thomas Weisel analyst Doug Reid who disputes the idea that Verizon is a lock to get the iPhone.
Here's the problem with this rumor: The iPhone is the most popular smartphone, and Verizon is the biggest wireless company. If AT&T's exclusive deal with Apple comes to an end, why would Apple skip out on selling it to T-Mobile AND Verizon customers? And why would Verizon pass on selling the most popular smartphone?
While it may seem like the companies are at odds based on the Droid commercials, the plain and simple fact is that companies like to make money. A lot. That's their highest priority. And making money makes for strange partnerships. So no matter how much Verizon/Google and AT&T/Apple get into it now, they'll be the first people in line at the kissing booth if it means turning a quick buck.
Remember, these rumors are often fueled by a single person spewing out their best guess and, sometimes (as may be in this case), playing the Devil's advocate. Next week, we'll no doubt hear about how Verizon will be selling the iPhone by summer of 2010, and the week after, rumors will pop up on how AT&T and Apple will sign a new exclusivity agreement.
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Comments
I think a lot of users who "had to have the iPhone," switched to AT&T already including Verizon customers as indicated by recent churn results and lowered net adds.
Given the opportunity, I don't think a T-Mobile launch of the iPhone closes the door on Verizon getting it either.
Apple already has a global vested interest in DT so adding their US 3G band is much easier than swapping out for a more expensive chipset that would allow a CDMA radio. When you think of T-Mobile, think GLOBAL and it makes more sense.
I suspect that both will get it, but T-Mobile USA would be easier and likely get it first.
Frankly I don't care either way whether Apple makes more money by selling it to Verizon or T-Mobile USA. That's not my concern. My concern is the ability to use the device on a network of my choice with a rate plan that is competitive and fair
Why would you want and Iphone, even the G1 does more than the 3G.
Tether, Flash, Google Navigation, Multitasking. As a TMob customer, I look forward to the HTC Passion over an overhyped paper weight like the 3GS.
The 3GS as it stands does not cover frequencies used by T-Mob and the current 3GS processor can't handle CDMA.
Why would I want and Iphone, get a life. Try the Eris or the Droid. and the Nexus with at 1GHZ choose your provider deal. Iphone is for newbies and kids that like to play games.
All music and video libraries will be available for a small price to stream, why carry it on your phone?
Android has Flash around the corner. Development of Android devices is faster. Most of the apps are free. Why pay for an overblown device like the Iphone? You have to be nuts!
T-Mobile is probably the one getting it.... Apple never really overhauls a phone or any of their devices with a big change (which is changing from GSM to CDMA).
GLOBAL YES, think GLOBAL. T-Mobile on my iPhone is like better than with AT&T except with internet surfing.... 3G on AT&T but barely. EDGE vs EDGE on T-Mobile and AT&T well T-Mobile is faster for me for most of the times and I never get dropped calls
I've been with Verizon, Cingular/AT&T and T-Mobile. TMO is a company that values customer service which is something Apple has valued from their beginning. I know cash rules but Apple sees beyond that. They stayed independant and customer oriented and held off Microsoft's jabs for a long time and look where they are now. They know there is more value in long term customer faith, independance and the "David and Goliath" image. Just watch Apple's choice, it will be T-Mobile first because they identify with their way of doing business, not their size. Apple is making enough money to choose the best, not the biggest.
I love T-MO.. and I have been waiting for the IPhone. I love my old Blackberry Curve, but this would be a great rumor if true.
Wow...just "wow". What are the qualifications to become an "Examiner". Far better (more informative, accurate) sites/blogs about this issue.
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