sleepy

The End of Exclusive: How Apple Plans to Grow Market Share

Actually, iPhone is a commodity handset; it's just a commodity with its own category, and a relatively high price. What makes it a commodity is (1) quantity sold/in use, (2) they are all iPhones with uniform device and global service specified and part implemented by Apple (via iTunes and MobileMe), (3) universal software update keeping them all in step.

Apple have created a product in its own generic market space, which is a business proposition for a carrier very similar to a basic voice+SMS phone, except for the higher ARPU it generates. It thus offers large and immediate growth for the carriers out of the saturated voice market. Apple's largest current business is selling growth to the carriers.

Jobs' Integrity: A Reason to Buy Apple

Thanks for writing this. It's what many Apple admirers think, but can't say without being written off as "fanbois", "mactards" etc. Steve Jobs is a simpler guy than is generally made out. He has plenty of money for all personal purposes for the rest of his life, and he knows it.

Will Apple Increase iPhone Value with Rumored Verizon Deal?

I am sure they are negotiating, and Apple is developing a Verizon compatible iPhone. But it may only be to add pressure on AT&T in negotiating the next annual renewal of their iPhone exclusive. (Assuming the rumored 2 year exclusive with annual renewals to five years).

Remember that an exclusive delivers higher carrier subsidy, which is probably Apple's largest source of income at present.