Article Blog #3

Article: http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/09/01/iphone.wireless.carriers/index.html#cnnSTCText

This article depicts AT&T’s future with its exclusive rights over Apple’s trendy iPhone, and the rumors of Apple possibly releasing the iPhone for other wireless providers. The iPhone has brought AT&T a lot of revenue, and many new customers. According to this article, “About 40 percent of AT&T's 10 million iPhone customers switched to AT&T from another carrier, the company said.” The rates for customers lost since the iPhone’s release has gone down, and left other companies trying to figure out how to gain their former customers back. Apple ended their exclusive deal with Orange, a wireless provider in France, and opened their device up to multiple carriers. By doing so, Apple saw its marketshare go upward about 40 percent. Apple has done the same thing in China, and expected to sell 3 million iPhones in China next year. The iPhone was suppose to have exclusive rights with Apple until 2012, but has recently been having a hard time keeping Apple’s interest only on them. Verizon is the front-runner in talks with Apple, and if things go as plan, Verizon could be the first to carry the iPhone on a 4g network.

The rumor of Apple possibly expanding its popular iPhone onto other wireless companies is probably one of their brightest ideas. By getting rid of their exclusive rights with AT&T, Apple will generate plenty of revenue and millions of people will definitely invest in the phone that has taken the smart phone to a completely new level. Many iPhone users have had complaints about the AT&T network, but remain to stay loyal to their handheld device. The article states that, “iPhone users regardless of whether they are satisfied with AT&T or not have been forced to stay on the network as long as they want to continue using their iPhone.” Ending its exclusive rights with AT&T will also help other wireless providers gain some revenue, and will level the playing field between the top wireless companies. There are many people using the iPhone on networks other than AT&T, though it is not supported by Apple or other wireless providers. Hackers have found ways to get around the barriers AT&T and Apple have set, and have hacks that allow anyone who wants to use an iPhone the ability to use it. Therefore, Apple should most definitely do this not only for the money, but also for its loyal customers. The iPhone faithful have made the phone what it is, so they should give back to their loyal customers.