D. JonesApples to Oranges? Verizon wants the iPhone!
April 8th 2010 13:00
Verizon CEO Ivan Seidenberg says the company has told Apple that it wants to carry the iPhone (I know of soo many people that would LOVE that!) But he declined to say when, or even if, the popular smart phone will be available for Verizon Wireless customers.
In remarks on Tuesday, before the Council on Foreign Relations, Seidenberg cited a recent Wall Street Journal report that said, Apple is working on a version of the iPhone that would be compatible with Verizon's network. Seidenberg reportedly went on to say that he'd ideally like a version of the iPhone that can support 4G LTE (Long-Term Evolution) technology. Verizon has confirmed that it will soon begin rolling out its 4G network and plans to cover approximately 100 million people, across 25 to 30 markets, by the end of 2010.
Seidenberg's comments added fuel to a fire sparked long ago but most recently fanned by a March 29 report from the Wall Street Journal, which said Apple was working on two new iPhones, an updated version for AT&T, expected to be released this summer, and a version based on CDMA technology, which Verizon could release in early 2011, or as soon as AT&T’s exclusivity contract with Apple expires (Perfect timing?) Analysts have agreed that an iPhone on the Verizon network would benefit both parties, potentially doubling Apple’s U.S. market share by 2011, according to analyst Neil Mawston, with Strategy Analytics. For Apple competitors, however, it could dangerously raise the bar. Should Verizon get an iPhone, Mawston told eWEEK, “Samsung, LG, Motorola, RIM and Palm will all have to up their game at Verizon to fend off an attack from Apple.” Seidenberg did not confirm the report or give any further details Tuesday. AT&T Inc. has exclusive rights to the iPhone in the United States. The company has been silent about the reports on the new iPhone model. Apple is expected to announce details on a new iPhone operating system (Today!) in Cupertino, Calif.
It seems Seidenberg has his hands in everyone's pie, doesn't it? In my other story about Microsoft's "Pink" project, Verizon has partnered with them for the "Turtle" and the "Pure" phones. Verizon wanted to compete AGAINST Apple with their merger of Microsoft and Verizon, this was reported just last year on April 29, 2009! Seems Mr. Seidenberg is either fickle or just plain greedy (smart....maybe?)...we'll just have to wait and see!
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