We’ve heard Apple will allow mobile networks to subsidise the 3G iPhone when it goes on sale, but now The Times has word from analysts that they’re expecting the handset to cost just £100.
That’s a whopping reduction on the current model, and means more people than ever will be in O2’s sights as it starts to sell the new mobile.
Of course, Apple will still charge operators the full amount, but it’s their subsidies that’re designed to bring new customers in, convincing them to change networks in order to grab one of Apple’s phones.
Still, we can’t help thinking these predictions are a bit short sighted. Apple knows its handset can be unlocked, and so does O2. And while a hefty discount is likely to draw more customers to O2’s network, there’s absolutely no guarantee that all iPhones sold through O2 will stay with O2.
Will the network really discount phones it knows can be used elsewhere? As ever, we’ll have to wait and see.
