Axcend | 01-12-2011 06:18 PM | here's what I'm thinking (I am currently a verizon customer): They will release the Iphone 4 as is on the CDMA, and they will offer unlimited data with it for 29.99 a month just like any other smartphone. Then when the 4G LTE comes out, either there won't be an unlimited data option or its going to sky rocket to 49.99 or something. My bet is that there won't be unlimited data offered. I am also thinking that when they decide this for/because of the iphone, you won't ever be able to get unlimited data again. I'm gonna play it safe and take a smaller hit and get the iphone when it comes out with unlimited data (unless they decide to do a terribly stupid move and change it) before the next iphone comes out and the rumours come true that there will no longer be an unlimited data option. The IP switching and the wifi hotspot alone will more than pay for buying the iphone 5 or iphone 4G by the time it comes out if on the off chance there is no change to the data plans. I really don't see verizon releasing an apple for 4G for at least a year anyways. They are most likely going to test out their 4G LTE network first with all the other 4G phones coming out well before they take on an iphone for the 4G.
My theory on this iphone release is to test the data usage without screwing up their 4G network by not being able to handle the workload. They will test out the iphone's effect on data with the regular CDMA network, while they work out the kinks on the 4G LTE with the other smartphones coming out. Then 6 months to a year after that, the new iphone will be released for 4G LTE. Apple NEVER rushes anything. They'll milk the Iphone 4 for all its work with verizon before even thinking about releasing the next one.
Just my theories from reading and knowledge of business :) |