Verizon Wireless Reported to Be in Talks for CDMA Based iPhone

Verizon is reported to be in advanced talks with Apple to launch a CDMA version of the iPhone handset. The mobile network operator entered into "high-level" discussions with Apple management a few months ago, when CEO Steve Jobs was overseeing day-to-day business, sources told USA Today. The sources declined to be named because they aren't authorized to speak publicly.

It is thought that AT&T has the exclusive rights to sell the iPhone in the USA until 2010, and has been reported to be in talks to extend that agreement.

Roger Entner, head of telecom research for Nielsen told the newspaper that while AT&T's 3G network is "somewhat faster," Verizon's network "is generally perceived to be better in terms of reliability."

However, the report slight contradicts a report earlier this month. Verizon's CEO Ivan Seidenberg said in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that he didn't think Apple would build a CDMA version of its handset - but that an LTE version could be viable.

He said "Apple never seriously considered making a CDMA version of the iPhone because it didn't have as wide a distribution opportunity". Verizon Wireless expects to start offering LTE coverage in two cities later this year, with major cities covered during 2010.

On the web: USA Today - Wall Street Journal

Posted to the site on 27th April 2009