Author
Cody Sharp
To misquote Dennis Green, “It is what we thought it was“. The Verizon iPhone 4 looks the same, feels the same, works the same…well not so fast. Like all CDMA devices you will not be able to browse the web while you are on the phone. Ugh. However, it is exactly what millions on the Verizon network (and many on the AT&T network) have been clamoring for during the last 3 years.
It is likely going to be a huge seller for Verizon and detrimental to AT&T’s business. The good news for us consumers is that with two players in town it should increase the competition regarding data plans. AT&T will definitely key on Verizon’s inability for their iPhone to use data while on a call. For us AT&T iPhone users, I can’t imagine not being able to do so. For those people already on Verizon, that problem probably won’t really change their mind about wanting an iPhone.
I believe the iPhone 5 will still be released in 2011. If that does happen, people who purchase the Verizon iPhone 4 will need to upgrade but won’t be able to. I think that is another place where AT&T will have a competitive edge. I would imagine they will key on the fact, at least in unofficial ways, that Apple will be releasing a new phone within the year and those people who go with Verizon won’t be able to upgrade and will be using Apple’s old technology. When asked if there will be a yearly cycle for new device support the Verizon spokesperson said he would not comment. Good decision. No one wants to hear the device they buy next month will be replaced by Christmas with something better.