Apple execs comment on netbooks, Verizon iPhone
updated 03:10 pm EDT, Tue May 12, 2009
Kaufman vs. Apple execs
A Verizon version of the iPhone may not arrive for some time, but it remains a strong possibility, according to a pair of key Apple executives. In a meeting with Kaufman Bros. and a group of investors, CFO Peter Oppenheimer and senior Mac manager Tom Boger have explained that Apple is happy with the results in regions with multiple iPhone carriers, such as Australia. Adding Verizon in 2010 would cause a problem, the executives say, because of the carrier's current dependence on CDMA networking.
The present iPhone is based around the GSM standard, which Apple notes is incompatible with CDMA but the main factor allowing the device to be sold in some 81 countries. It only makes sense to open American sales up, say Boger and Oppenheimer, when both AT&T and Verizon have switched over to LTE. Verizon is only beginning the transition in early 2010, while AT&T estimates a 2011 switchover.
Boger and Oppenheimer have meanwhile continued to deny any near-term Apple interest in netbooks, which they criticize as being poor computers. Ironically, the pair note, netbooks are increasingly adding luxuries such as larger screen sizes. In regards to future plans, Apple is said to simply be adopting a "never say never" stance.
Based on a general appraisal of Apple's status, Kaufman says it is raising its price target for stock from $152 to $160.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Apr 2007
iPhone on Verizon
The iPhone won't get official Apple support until Verizon can show that their LTE network either has superb coverage or they can hammer down a GSM deal with T-Mobile for roaming. Unless either one of those happens, an LTE iPhone on Verizon would be great if you never left the city, but were Verizon's LTE rollout subpar in coverage, you'd be stuck without a usable phone because I really doubt Apple is going to bother putting in a CDMA chip in any of their products.