By Tim Ferguson, 26 June 2007 16:36
NEWS
Vodafone is among the frontrunners to become the network operator for Apple's iPhone when it comes to Europe, according to investment bank Credit Suisse.
A recent Credit Suisse research note said the UK-based mobile operator could walk away with the sole rights to sell the iPhone in Europe.
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Credit Suisse believes Vodafone would represent a good bet for Apple as it's able to offer a presence in most European markets.
In the US, Apple has signed an exclusive five-year deal with AT&T to be sole operator for the iPhone - and Credit Suisse believes a similar deal could be brokered in Europe.
Vodafone's chief rival appears to be Deutsche Telekom, according to Credit Suisse.
Mike Grant, consultant at research company Analysys, told silicon.com the operator would be a good choice for bringing the Apple mobile phone to Europe if the device is 3G ready: "If Apple waits until [the iPhone's] a 3G phone, then yes, I would say Vodafone is absolutely the frontrunner. It would be a perfect match."
Grant said Vodafone has been aggressive about the positioning of its 3G mobile internet service so the fact the current iPhone is only 2G could be an issue.
He added it would be a significant coup for whichever mobile operator secures a deal to supply the iPhone.
Credit Suisse predicts the European operator for the iPhone can expect to sell around six million of the devices in the first three years.
The iPhone is set to launch in the US on 29 June. A release date for Europe has not yet been announced.
Comments
There are 3 comments. Join the discussion
1. anonymous
The iPhone is only 2G how last year.
I thought it was supposed to be the latest and greatest, does it have anything new and up to date???
2. anonymous
Good job I am not with Vodaphone!!!
3. Simon
To the first poster - yes it's only 2G at the moment. I would expect 3G to appear some time (probably before it launches over here).
Don't forget that in the US they don't have 3G and it's a battery hog - so for the US market they are better off without it in the phone.