2007年5月31日星期四
iPhone is open to 3rd party apps, says Jobs
During the interview with Walt Mossberg at the D Conference, Steve Jobs apparently let slip (according to the transcript from Gizmodo and Engadget), that even though the Apple iPhone won't start out the gate with support for third-party applications, Apple is open to it and is working on making that possible later this year. Both transcripts imply that Jobs was concerned about security issues, which is what presumably was holding up the process. The lack of third party support was one of the biggest complaints about the iPhone when it was first announced earlier this year, so if Apple actually makes this happen, it'll make a lot of people happy (And one of them is me). Now if only they'll work on 3G support as well...
AT&T exec calls iPhone 'game changer'
The incoming CEO of AT&T said Wednesday that expectations are "too low" for Apple Inc.'s iPhone, which his company will start selling next month. "The iPhone is going to be a game changer," Randall Stephenson said at an investor conference in New York. "I don't know what your expectations are for the iPhone, but I would tell you they're probably too low at this point." The iPhone, which blends a mobile phone with the iPod music player, has attracted interest from more than 1 million customers, he said. Apple expects to sell 10 million iPhones next year, and AT&T won exclusive rights to distribute the product in the U.S. AT&T's cell phone unit, formerly known as Cingular Wireless, plans to use the iPhone to recruit subscribers. San Antonio-based AT&T has 62.2 million wireless customers, the most in the nation. Stephenson, chief operating officer of AT&T, will replace Edward Whitacre on Sunday as CEO. Verizon Wireless reportedly plans to introduce a device this summer to compete with the iPhone. Last month Sprint did the same when it introduced its Upstage.
Jobs wants to put the 'baby Internet' to bed
SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Since Apple Inc. unveiled the iPhone four months ago, there has been much speculation about whether it will be more of an iPod or a cell phone.
But to hear Steve Jobs tell it, the device's strongest selling point may be neither.
As he touted the product to a gathering of tech industry executives this week [on Wednesday], Apple's (AAPL :
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AAPL118.77, +4.42, +3.9%) chief executive sounded most excited about the iPhone's Internet pedigree -- especially it's ability to download and play videos.
The iPhone comes equipped with "real versions" of the company's operating system and the Safari Web browser, Jobs said, which will allow Apple to deliver to consumers an experience that others have mostly failed to. "It's the Internet in your pocket," he said.
Even though cell-phone providers have spent billions to build out sophisticated networks to let handsets access the Web, "you can't do a lot with them," according to Jobs. "You get the 'baby Internet,'" he said. "People want to get the 'real Internet' on their phone," Jobs said.
If Jobs is right, Apple's move into the handset market may not hinge on how well the product can navigate the straits between two markets -- cell phones and portable media players -- that within a few years will likely become one.
That challenge is one reason many Apple watchers feel that the company's move into the cell phone market is fraught with risk.
At nearly $500, no one is going to buy the iPhone just for its handset capabilities.
If the iPod merely cannibalizes sales of high-end iPods, it may open the door to rivals like Nokia Corp. (NOK :
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NOK27.16, +0.69, +2.6%) and Sony Ericsson to slow iPod growth or even take market share. Both companies have added music players to their phones.
But if Jobs can change why people buy cell phones with the iPhone, just as he changed how people buy music with the iPod, he might take enough of the handset market share to keep iPod sales surging.
Jobs can spin with the best of them, so his touting of the iPhone's video download may be little more than shrewd product positioning.
During his presentation at the "D" - All Thing Digital conference in Carlsbad, Calif., Jobs managed to turn on its head the most common argument against the iPhone -- that it's lack of a keyboard will be a huge negative for consumers used to texting on smart phones like the Research in Motion Ltd. (RIMM :
research in motion ltd com
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RIMM164.66, -0.67, -0.4%) BlackBerry and the Palm Inc. Treo.
Jobs acknowledged that the iPhone's touch screen will take some getting used to.
"It takes about a week; you have to learn how to trust it," he said.
But the feature will provide the device with "incredible versatility," because it allows the device to offer users different interfaces for its different applications.
To be sure, it's not that Jobs downplayed the product's music player capabilities.
The iPhone "has the best iPod we've ever made," he said.
Still, he acknowledged that Cingular Wireless, which will be the only carrier to sell the product when it begins shipping next month, took a chance by agreeing to carry the product before Apple even showed it to them.
"They took a gamble on us," because Apple has never made its own handset, "just as we took a gamble on them," Jobs said.
So why would Cingular, now a unit of AT&T Inc. (T :
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T40.98, +0.49, +1.2%) , do it?
Because "music hasn't been good on the phone," he said, and the company felt that partnering with Apple was their best chance of improving that experience.
If consumers agree, Apple's sales and stock price may continue to rise, and Jobs may once again look like a genius.
But to hear Steve Jobs tell it, the device's strongest selling point may be neither.
As he touted the product to a gathering of tech industry executives this week [on Wednesday], Apple's (AAPL :
Apple Inc
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AAPL118.77, +4.42, +3.9%) chief executive sounded most excited about the iPhone's Internet pedigree -- especially it's ability to download and play videos.
The iPhone comes equipped with "real versions" of the company's operating system and the Safari Web browser, Jobs said, which will allow Apple to deliver to consumers an experience that others have mostly failed to. "It's the Internet in your pocket," he said.
Even though cell-phone providers have spent billions to build out sophisticated networks to let handsets access the Web, "you can't do a lot with them," according to Jobs. "You get the 'baby Internet,'" he said. "People want to get the 'real Internet' on their phone," Jobs said.
If Jobs is right, Apple's move into the handset market may not hinge on how well the product can navigate the straits between two markets -- cell phones and portable media players -- that within a few years will likely become one.
That challenge is one reason many Apple watchers feel that the company's move into the cell phone market is fraught with risk.
At nearly $500, no one is going to buy the iPhone just for its handset capabilities.
If the iPod merely cannibalizes sales of high-end iPods, it may open the door to rivals like Nokia Corp. (NOK :
Nokia Corp
News , chart , profile , more
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NOK27.16, +0.69, +2.6%) and Sony Ericsson to slow iPod growth or even take market share. Both companies have added music players to their phones.
But if Jobs can change why people buy cell phones with the iPhone, just as he changed how people buy music with the iPod, he might take enough of the handset market share to keep iPod sales surging.
Jobs can spin with the best of them, so his touting of the iPhone's video download may be little more than shrewd product positioning.
During his presentation at the "D" - All Thing Digital conference in Carlsbad, Calif., Jobs managed to turn on its head the most common argument against the iPhone -- that it's lack of a keyboard will be a huge negative for consumers used to texting on smart phones like the Research in Motion Ltd. (RIMM :
research in motion ltd com
News , chart , profile , more
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RIMM164.66, -0.67, -0.4%) BlackBerry and the Palm Inc. Treo.
Jobs acknowledged that the iPhone's touch screen will take some getting used to.
"It takes about a week; you have to learn how to trust it," he said.
But the feature will provide the device with "incredible versatility," because it allows the device to offer users different interfaces for its different applications.
To be sure, it's not that Jobs downplayed the product's music player capabilities.
The iPhone "has the best iPod we've ever made," he said.
Still, he acknowledged that Cingular Wireless, which will be the only carrier to sell the product when it begins shipping next month, took a chance by agreeing to carry the product before Apple even showed it to them.
"They took a gamble on us," because Apple has never made its own handset, "just as we took a gamble on them," Jobs said.
So why would Cingular, now a unit of AT&T Inc. (T :
AT&T Inc
News , chart , profile , more
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T40.98, +0.49, +1.2%) , do it?
Because "music hasn't been good on the phone," he said, and the company felt that partnering with Apple was their best chance of improving that experience.
If consumers agree, Apple's sales and stock price may continue to rise, and Jobs may once again look like a genius.
2007年5月28日星期一
Leading the charge on iPhone
Brace yourself for another tsunami of hype.
May's craze was "American Idol." June's will be the Apple iPhone, which is going on sale in a few weeks. As with "Idol," the iPhone show has lots of Seattle connections.
The season begins Wednesday when Apple boss Steve Jobs is expected to talk up the device at a Wall Street Journal tech conference in California.
Playing the foil on stage with Jobs will be the Simon Cowell of the software world, Bill Gates.
Behind the scenes, AT&T engineers in Redmond are busy working with the iPhone to be sure it works well on the wireless network. The team is a vestige of the company's roots as Cingular Wireless, AT&T Wireless and, before that, McCaw Cellular Communications.
But the biggest local player may be Glenn Lurie, AT&T's point man on the iPhone project.
Lurie, 41, grew up in Portland, graduated from Seattle Pacific University in 1987 and married into a Bellingham family.
His first job out of college was selling tickets and suites for the Sonics, but after six weeks he was recruited to play pro soccer.
In 1990, he was back in Portland, trying to decide whether to coach at soccer camps. Instead he became a sales rep for McCaw's Cellular One.
As the company surged and merged, Lurie charged up the corporate ladder. Within a few years, he was head of marketing to suburban Oregon. Then he was tapped to lead McCaw's Arizona debut.
"One of the beautiful things about the wireless business is that if you performed, the business grew so fast, you could grow with it," he said last week in Seattle.
After McCaw sold to AT&T and became AT&T Wireless, Lurie transferred to Los Angeles and later became regional president for the West.
(AT&T Wireless was acquired by Cingular, which recently changed its name to AT&T.)
Now Lurie is president of national distribution, based in Atlanta.
The job put him in the room with the chief executive and chief operating officer during their first meeting with Jobs. Then he worked on contracts leading to an exclusive, five-year iPhone partnership.
They knew it was a big chance, but they didn't realize how big, Lurie said.
"The anticipation that we're seeing, the buzz we're seeing, at least for me, has far exceeded our expectations of how important this would be to the business and us," he said.
Lurie is using an iPhone, but he wouldn't take it out for a photo last week. "Can't do that," he said.
He was more than happy to show off the Samsung BlackJack on his hip, though. AT&T is selling the Microsoft-powered phone for less than $100. That's about a fifth the price of an iPhone, which is being priced $499 for a 4-gigabyte model and $599 for 8 gigabytes.
That price gap is why I've been skeptical about the iPhone's prospects.
The device will undoubtedly push phone makers to improve their software and add features. It may force wireless companies to let more users have full browsers and PC-like music players on their phones.
But how many people are going to pay nearly $600 for a phone?
That's partly why I wanted to meet Lurie and to get a better idea of what to expect from America's next diversion.
Here's an edited version of our chat:
Q: One point of skepticism is the price. That BlackJack is pretty nice, and it costs $500 less than an iPhone ...
A: Here's how I'd explain it. The most popular iPod, a 4-gigabyte Nano, costs $200. If you've got a RIM BlackBerry or Palm Treo, you probably paid $200 minimum. Then you've got a phone that you got for free or paid maybe $50.
You're at $450 or $500. The question you've got to be able to ask yourself is, is this device going to be able to replace those three, so you carry one? That's the question.
I think when people get their hands on it and really experience it — the touch screen is phenomenal, this touch screen is like nothing you've ever used — to experience that, the skepticism, I think, around some of those things will go away.
There are other things — you have the widgets, some of the Google applications that are coming — there are just so many things here that the price will not be an issue.
Q: So you don't think you'll have to subsidize the phone's price?
A: We're not talking about that.
Q: What's your impression of Apple?
A: It's a great company. I know there are lots of interesting thoughts out there about how Steve and his team have done so many things, but they have been such innovators. If you look at the music side, it's hard to argue that they aren't driving a lot of things.
Q: What's your favorite iPhone feature?
A: I don't know if I can answer that. It's a pretty incredible browsing environment. That's the first part that I think will blow people away. It's the first widescreen iPod they've ever done; it is very, very good, works extremely well.
I think the other thing people haven't really thought through is that Apple's so good at simplifying things. That's just what they're known for; they've really simplified the phone. The standard phone applications are really intuitive, whether it's receiving a phone call, putting that person on hold, adding another party and bringing a conference call together.
Q: Won't the full-powered browser hurt AT&T? People won't need to use its services as much — they'll just pull things from the Web, instead of calling directory assistance, for example.
A: No, actually it won't. I think it will be great for us, and here's why. One of the things with this device — people are going to be asked to have an unlimited package — people are going to have to have a package with us to browse. That's one good thing for everybody.
I think this is going to create a new way people use handheld devices because the browsing experience is as good as the PC browsing experience. So I think it's not going to hurt us at all. I'm excited about what it will do for the industry in terms of how people view mobile browsing.
Q: What's the risk in your deal with Apple? Are there downsides or concerns?
A: Not that I can see. The thing I get asked about a lot is, obviously, that our companies are different cultures. But they have been incredible to work with.
The one thing we found as commonality is our pursuit of customer experience. Whenever we got into discussions, the thing we kept coming back to was this unwavering "what's the customer experience going to be?" That's gotten us over the hump every single time.
Q: What do you think of Jobs?
A: He's a great guy. I've been dealing with Steve a lot. I think my prior comments fit: He is all about the customer, the customer experience, making sure that what customers get meets expectations. That's what my mesh has been.
May's craze was "American Idol." June's will be the Apple iPhone, which is going on sale in a few weeks. As with "Idol," the iPhone show has lots of Seattle connections.
The season begins Wednesday when Apple boss Steve Jobs is expected to talk up the device at a Wall Street Journal tech conference in California.
Playing the foil on stage with Jobs will be the Simon Cowell of the software world, Bill Gates.
Behind the scenes, AT&T engineers in Redmond are busy working with the iPhone to be sure it works well on the wireless network. The team is a vestige of the company's roots as Cingular Wireless, AT&T Wireless and, before that, McCaw Cellular Communications.
But the biggest local player may be Glenn Lurie, AT&T's point man on the iPhone project.
Lurie, 41, grew up in Portland, graduated from Seattle Pacific University in 1987 and married into a Bellingham family.
His first job out of college was selling tickets and suites for the Sonics, but after six weeks he was recruited to play pro soccer.
In 1990, he was back in Portland, trying to decide whether to coach at soccer camps. Instead he became a sales rep for McCaw's Cellular One.
As the company surged and merged, Lurie charged up the corporate ladder. Within a few years, he was head of marketing to suburban Oregon. Then he was tapped to lead McCaw's Arizona debut.
"One of the beautiful things about the wireless business is that if you performed, the business grew so fast, you could grow with it," he said last week in Seattle.
After McCaw sold to AT&T and became AT&T Wireless, Lurie transferred to Los Angeles and later became regional president for the West.
(AT&T Wireless was acquired by Cingular, which recently changed its name to AT&T.)
Now Lurie is president of national distribution, based in Atlanta.
The job put him in the room with the chief executive and chief operating officer during their first meeting with Jobs. Then he worked on contracts leading to an exclusive, five-year iPhone partnership.
They knew it was a big chance, but they didn't realize how big, Lurie said.
"The anticipation that we're seeing, the buzz we're seeing, at least for me, has far exceeded our expectations of how important this would be to the business and us," he said.
Lurie is using an iPhone, but he wouldn't take it out for a photo last week. "Can't do that," he said.
He was more than happy to show off the Samsung BlackJack on his hip, though. AT&T is selling the Microsoft-powered phone for less than $100. That's about a fifth the price of an iPhone, which is being priced $499 for a 4-gigabyte model and $599 for 8 gigabytes.
That price gap is why I've been skeptical about the iPhone's prospects.
The device will undoubtedly push phone makers to improve their software and add features. It may force wireless companies to let more users have full browsers and PC-like music players on their phones.
But how many people are going to pay nearly $600 for a phone?
That's partly why I wanted to meet Lurie and to get a better idea of what to expect from America's next diversion.
Here's an edited version of our chat:
Q: One point of skepticism is the price. That BlackJack is pretty nice, and it costs $500 less than an iPhone ...
A: Here's how I'd explain it. The most popular iPod, a 4-gigabyte Nano, costs $200. If you've got a RIM BlackBerry or Palm Treo, you probably paid $200 minimum. Then you've got a phone that you got for free or paid maybe $50.
You're at $450 or $500. The question you've got to be able to ask yourself is, is this device going to be able to replace those three, so you carry one? That's the question.
I think when people get their hands on it and really experience it — the touch screen is phenomenal, this touch screen is like nothing you've ever used — to experience that, the skepticism, I think, around some of those things will go away.
There are other things — you have the widgets, some of the Google applications that are coming — there are just so many things here that the price will not be an issue.
Q: So you don't think you'll have to subsidize the phone's price?
A: We're not talking about that.
Q: What's your impression of Apple?
A: It's a great company. I know there are lots of interesting thoughts out there about how Steve and his team have done so many things, but they have been such innovators. If you look at the music side, it's hard to argue that they aren't driving a lot of things.
Q: What's your favorite iPhone feature?
A: I don't know if I can answer that. It's a pretty incredible browsing environment. That's the first part that I think will blow people away. It's the first widescreen iPod they've ever done; it is very, very good, works extremely well.
I think the other thing people haven't really thought through is that Apple's so good at simplifying things. That's just what they're known for; they've really simplified the phone. The standard phone applications are really intuitive, whether it's receiving a phone call, putting that person on hold, adding another party and bringing a conference call together.
Q: Won't the full-powered browser hurt AT&T? People won't need to use its services as much — they'll just pull things from the Web, instead of calling directory assistance, for example.
A: No, actually it won't. I think it will be great for us, and here's why. One of the things with this device — people are going to be asked to have an unlimited package — people are going to have to have a package with us to browse. That's one good thing for everybody.
I think this is going to create a new way people use handheld devices because the browsing experience is as good as the PC browsing experience. So I think it's not going to hurt us at all. I'm excited about what it will do for the industry in terms of how people view mobile browsing.
Q: What's the risk in your deal with Apple? Are there downsides or concerns?
A: Not that I can see. The thing I get asked about a lot is, obviously, that our companies are different cultures. But they have been incredible to work with.
The one thing we found as commonality is our pursuit of customer experience. Whenever we got into discussions, the thing we kept coming back to was this unwavering "what's the customer experience going to be?" That's gotten us over the hump every single time.
Q: What do you think of Jobs?
A: He's a great guy. I've been dealing with Steve a lot. I think my prior comments fit: He is all about the customer, the customer experience, making sure that what customers get meets expectations. That's what my mesh has been.
More iPhone apps confirmed
AT&T’s main man says extra applications from Google will be on the iPhone. Click to enlarge 1 of 1 Apple's got more apps to fill that menu, specifically, from Google... [more images]We’ve been wondering about the iPhone’s applications for a while, but now it’s been confirmed – the handset will come with more than we’ve seen so far.
AT&T, the iPhone’s sole provider in the US, has gone on record saying more Google apps in particular will be present on the handset.
We’ve already seen Google Maps, and very swish it is too, but now AT&T’s president of national distribution Glenn Lurie says they’ll be accompanied by others from the house of Google.
Exactly what they are, he’s not saying. Our money is on Google News or Google Reader, for staying up to date on the move. Maybe there’s an iPhone version of Blogger in the works, potentially woven into a mobile iWeb. Perhaps Google Calendar will integrate fully with the handset’s iCal support. The potential is endless.
Speaking to the Seattle Times Laurie said the handset’s touchscreen would also surprise people. “I think when people get their hands on it and really experience it — the touch screen is phenomenal,” he said.
“This touch screen is like nothing you've ever used — to experience that, the scepticism, I think… will go away.”
T3 got some hands-on time with iPhone just after it was announced, and we can confirm the touchscreen is indeed phenomenal. Check out our hands-on report here.
In the meantime, we’re waiting like everyone else for news on the iPhone’s UK release. Updates right here as soon as we hear them.
AT&T, the iPhone’s sole provider in the US, has gone on record saying more Google apps in particular will be present on the handset.
We’ve already seen Google Maps, and very swish it is too, but now AT&T’s president of national distribution Glenn Lurie says they’ll be accompanied by others from the house of Google.
Exactly what they are, he’s not saying. Our money is on Google News or Google Reader, for staying up to date on the move. Maybe there’s an iPhone version of Blogger in the works, potentially woven into a mobile iWeb. Perhaps Google Calendar will integrate fully with the handset’s iCal support. The potential is endless.
Speaking to the Seattle Times Laurie said the handset’s touchscreen would also surprise people. “I think when people get their hands on it and really experience it — the touch screen is phenomenal,” he said.
“This touch screen is like nothing you've ever used — to experience that, the scepticism, I think… will go away.”
T3 got some hands-on time with iPhone just after it was announced, and we can confirm the touchscreen is indeed phenomenal. Check out our hands-on report here.
In the meantime, we’re waiting like everyone else for news on the iPhone’s UK release. Updates right here as soon as we hear them.
Verizon to Challenge iPhone with LG Prada
Even though Verizon opted out of carrying the iPhone, it's not like the checkmark of a mobile service provider has no interest in the touchscreen cell phone market whatsoever. Quite the contrary, in fact, because Verizon will reportedly pick up the iPhone's closest competitor -- the LG Prada -- to face off against AT&T in a battle for key-less supremacy.According to The Street's Scott Moritz, Verizon has inked a deal with LG to bring the touch-sensitive cell phone to Americans, though it's unclear whether it will be the "Prada" or some other, possibly less expensive variant. It seems like the latter is more likely, because Verizon is probably interested in keeping the price down to a more reasonable level.2007年5月27日星期日
Reports: Verizon Planning iPhone Killer
Reports: Verizon Planning iPhone Killer
Verizon Wireless is plotting a response to AT&T's widely-anticipated Apple iPhone offering.Part 1 of a special five-part series. -->
Jim Duffy, Network World
Verizon Wireless is plotting a response to AT&T's widely-anticipated Apple iPhone offering, according to published reports.
Apple unveiled iPhone at the Macworld conference in January. It features a 3.5-inch, 160 dot-per-inch color screen, a 2 megapixel digital camera and a touchscreen Apple calls "Multitouch," which is designed to enhance accuracy by ignoring unintended touches.
IPhone is 11.6 millimeters thick -- thinner than typical smartphones, according to Apple CEO Steve Jobs.
AT&T has exclusive rights to offer iPhone for five years. It will be available from the carrier next month.
Verizon Wireless' counter is the LG Prada, or KE850, according to TheStreet.com. Prada is a sleek handset similar in look to the iPhone, the Web site reports. It includes a camera, and can play music and videos and allow for document viewing.
IPhone will cost US$500 while Prada is expected to retail for around $600. The offering is seen as key for Verizon Wireless to attempt to stem the tide of customers to iPhone and AT&T.
Verizon Wireless was not immediately available for comment. USA Today recently quoted Verizon COO Denny Strigl stating that the carrier will have a response to iPhone by late summer.
For more information about enterprise networking, go to NetworkWorld. Story copyright 2007 Network World Inc. All rights reserved.
Verizon Wireless is plotting a response to AT&T's widely-anticipated Apple iPhone offering.Part 1 of a special five-part series. -->
Jim Duffy, Network World
Verizon Wireless is plotting a response to AT&T's widely-anticipated Apple iPhone offering, according to published reports.
Apple unveiled iPhone at the Macworld conference in January. It features a 3.5-inch, 160 dot-per-inch color screen, a 2 megapixel digital camera and a touchscreen Apple calls "Multitouch," which is designed to enhance accuracy by ignoring unintended touches.
IPhone is 11.6 millimeters thick -- thinner than typical smartphones, according to Apple CEO Steve Jobs.
AT&T has exclusive rights to offer iPhone for five years. It will be available from the carrier next month.
Verizon Wireless' counter is the LG Prada, or KE850, according to TheStreet.com. Prada is a sleek handset similar in look to the iPhone, the Web site reports. It includes a camera, and can play music and videos and allow for document viewing.
IPhone will cost US$500 while Prada is expected to retail for around $600. The offering is seen as key for Verizon Wireless to attempt to stem the tide of customers to iPhone and AT&T.
Verizon Wireless was not immediately available for comment. USA Today recently quoted Verizon COO Denny Strigl stating that the carrier will have a response to iPhone by late summer.
For more information about enterprise networking, go to NetworkWorld. Story copyright 2007 Network World Inc. All rights reserved.
Rivals Gear Up for iPhone Debut
SAN FRANCISCO With Apple's iPhone due to debut in a month, the wireless wars heated up last week among AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.AT&T, the iPhone's exclusive U.S. service provider, accelerated the process of rebranding its former Cingular stores on May 21-22 to get the maximum benefit from the growing buzz surrounding the new product.
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During the same period, T-Mobile unveiled its own version of the iPhone, called the Wing. The Internet-enabled, WiFi equipped device retails for $299 with rebates. Not to be outdone, Verizon executives said in published reports that they would unveil a new WiFi mobile phone in late summer.Apple's iPhone is billed as a well designed, easy-to-use wireless phone, music player and Web-access product. Apple's lead agency, Omnicom Group's TBWA\Chiat\Day in Playa del Rey, Calif., is handling the iPhone's intro.Critics maintain its hefty starting price of $499 will limit its overall appeal."The introduction of the iPhone will have a big impact on the mobile market globally," counters Daniel Rosen, director of AKQA Mobile.Aside from the popularity of its design and simplicity, iPhone poses another threat to carriers: "It is similar to the iPod in that users download music from their computers" in order to put it on their phone, he said.That's bad news for carriers "who prefer that phone users pay to download music using the phone networks that they have been spending millions of dollars to build in the last few years." he said.AT&T agreed to ignore the problem because "they recognize that this phone will be a must-have item for so many millions of iPod fans. AT&T will most likely win significant market share from competitors [whose customers] will want to have an iPhone more than they want to stay on their existing mobile-phone contract," Rosen said.Some analysts said the low-tech approach of the iPhone could help the mobile phone industry overall by raising the awareness of new services and content, pointing to the effect the iPod had on digital music. (A 2006 report by Jupiter Research said the emergence of the iPod drove acceptance of all digital music products.)Executives at shops that handle phone-carrier accounts generally downplay the iPhone's potential impact, treating it as another new product launch, rather than a category changer.However, Bob Moore, CCO of Publicis USA, who oversees T-Mobile, said significant new advertising and nontraditional marketing for the T-mobile brand will begin in the third quarter, right after the iPhone launch. "The next 12 months are going to be an exciting time in the industry," he said.
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During the same period, T-Mobile unveiled its own version of the iPhone, called the Wing. The Internet-enabled, WiFi equipped device retails for $299 with rebates. Not to be outdone, Verizon executives said in published reports that they would unveil a new WiFi mobile phone in late summer.Apple's iPhone is billed as a well designed, easy-to-use wireless phone, music player and Web-access product. Apple's lead agency, Omnicom Group's TBWA\Chiat\Day in Playa del Rey, Calif., is handling the iPhone's intro.Critics maintain its hefty starting price of $499 will limit its overall appeal."The introduction of the iPhone will have a big impact on the mobile market globally," counters Daniel Rosen, director of AKQA Mobile.Aside from the popularity of its design and simplicity, iPhone poses another threat to carriers: "It is similar to the iPod in that users download music from their computers" in order to put it on their phone, he said.That's bad news for carriers "who prefer that phone users pay to download music using the phone networks that they have been spending millions of dollars to build in the last few years." he said.AT&T agreed to ignore the problem because "they recognize that this phone will be a must-have item for so many millions of iPod fans. AT&T will most likely win significant market share from competitors [whose customers] will want to have an iPhone more than they want to stay on their existing mobile-phone contract," Rosen said.Some analysts said the low-tech approach of the iPhone could help the mobile phone industry overall by raising the awareness of new services and content, pointing to the effect the iPod had on digital music. (A 2006 report by Jupiter Research said the emergence of the iPod drove acceptance of all digital music products.)Executives at shops that handle phone-carrier accounts generally downplay the iPhone's potential impact, treating it as another new product launch, rather than a category changer.However, Bob Moore, CCO of Publicis USA, who oversees T-Mobile, said significant new advertising and nontraditional marketing for the T-mobile brand will begin in the third quarter, right after the iPhone launch. "The next 12 months are going to be an exciting time in the industry," he said.
2007年5月26日星期六
Ainol intros iPhone media player clone
Following in the wake of Meizu's miniOne, Chinese firm Ainol has just rolled out its own attempt at drawing on the iPhone's anticipated success. The V2000 is strictly a media player with a smaller 3-inch LCD and features to match its shifted focus. A 600MHz ADI Blackfin chip provides enough decoding performance for the mainstay AVI format as well as various MPEG formats and even RealVideo; audio is just as diverse, with MP3 and WMA support backed by more exotic APE and FLAC lossless music. Voice recoring and an FM radio are built-in to round out the media playback options.
Games are also a strong component of the V2000, Ainol claims. Emulation is onboard for several classic video game systems, including NES and SNES systems, the Sega Genesis, and original NeoGeo arcade games. Over 10,000 titles are said to be playable using external controllers.Pricing and a release date for the latest Ainol player are yet to be fixed; Ainol describes the device as a prototype, suggesting a final release later in the year. The company however promises a single model that will rely solely on SD cards for up to 4GB of storage. Expectedly, the device is likely to see official sales in China.
Games are also a strong component of the V2000, Ainol claims. Emulation is onboard for several classic video game systems, including NES and SNES systems, the Sega Genesis, and original NeoGeo arcade games. Over 10,000 titles are said to be playable using external controllers.Pricing and a release date for the latest Ainol player are yet to be fixed; Ainol describes the device as a prototype, suggesting a final release later in the year. The company however promises a single model that will rely solely on SD cards for up to 4GB of storage. Expectedly, the device is likely to see official sales in China.
2007年5月25日星期五
Apple Rises After IPhone Media Report
APApple Rises After IPhone Media ReportFriday May 25, 1:55 pm ET By Rachel Metz, AP Business Writer
Apple Shares Rise Following Media Report That IPhone Will Be Launched June 20
NEW YORK (AP) -- Shares of Apple Inc. rose Friday after a media report stated the company's much-anticipated iPhone will be released June 20.
Apple shares added $1.83 to $112.52 in afternoon trading. Apple's shares have been rising steadily over the past year, hitting an all-time high of $115 on Wednesday. Growth in recent months has been fueled by speculation and consumer excitement over the hybrid phone and media player.
Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris would not confirm or deny the date. However, she noted "We have said consistently that we're looking forward to shipping the iPhone in late June and that has not changed."
Whenever the product launches, it will be available at both AT&T cell phone stores and Apple stores, Kerris said.
AT&T spokesman Mark Siegel also confirmed the product is still on track to launch in late June. "We're not going to get more specific than that," he said.
Siegel said he did not know where the June 20 date came from.
Clerks contacted at eight AT&T stores in New York said they had been told the iPhone would launch on dates ranging from June 11 to June 22.
American Technology Research analyst Shaw Wu said rise in Apple's share price Friday is being fueled by the CNBC report.
"It gives investors higher confidence it will be launched on time," he said.
As far as he knows, no date has been set yet for the phone's release.
"What we do know is it's going to be in the second half of June, likely in the last week or so," he said.
Wu doesn't know how likely it is that iPhones will appear on June 20. But Apple watchers may be skeptical of the day -- a Wednesday -- as Apple tends to launch products on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Podcast: Dealing with iPhone envy before the fact
A new report is out demonstrating iPhone envy among people who know very little about Apple's upcoming phone gadget. Since Steve Jobs debuted the product six months ago, the hype has been relentless. But will the wait be worth it? CNET News.com's Ina Fried explains the Apple mystique and the calibration of performance versus expectations.
The decades-old explanation for the origin of the universe posited a Big Bang sometime in the distant past. But new research is emerging that challenges that apocalyptic recreation.
For the last decade, it has been relatively child's play to smuggle a portable digital camera inside a movie theater and then secretly record a film. But equipped with new military-style goggles, antipiracy forces hope they can begin to stem the illegal recording of bootleg copies.
2007年5月24日星期四
iPhone no-show at Apple event
But Apple will unveil new laptops and iPods
Gregg Keizer
Apple will not be showing off its much-vaunted iPhone at June's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), according to a respected Wall Street analyst.
PiperJaffray analyst Gene Munster rejected rumours that Apple will tout its iPhone at the conference (June 14) in San Francisco. Apple will launch the new mobile phone in late June.
Instead, at WWDC CEO Steve Jobs will flesh out previously undisclosed features of its forthcoming new operating system (Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard), announce new MacBook Pro models, and possibly a revamped iMac desktop lineup.
Speculation is rife that Apple will show LED-backlit MacBook Pros using the new Intel Santa Rosa chipset.
Munster predicted that from July to September Apple would sell approximately a million iPhones at an average price of US$550 each.
Munster also predicted that a widescreen iPod (essentially a stripped iPhone) would ship in early autumn. "Expect Apple to launch new widescreen iPods with the iPhone's multi-touch technology at a price-point below the iPhone's $499," said Munster. "Like $399."
Gregg Keizer
Apple will not be showing off its much-vaunted iPhone at June's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), according to a respected Wall Street analyst.
PiperJaffray analyst Gene Munster rejected rumours that Apple will tout its iPhone at the conference (June 14) in San Francisco. Apple will launch the new mobile phone in late June.
Instead, at WWDC CEO Steve Jobs will flesh out previously undisclosed features of its forthcoming new operating system (Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard), announce new MacBook Pro models, and possibly a revamped iMac desktop lineup.
Speculation is rife that Apple will show LED-backlit MacBook Pros using the new Intel Santa Rosa chipset.
Munster predicted that from July to September Apple would sell approximately a million iPhones at an average price of US$550 each.
Munster also predicted that a widescreen iPod (essentially a stripped iPhone) would ship in early autumn. "Expect Apple to launch new widescreen iPods with the iPhone's multi-touch technology at a price-point below the iPhone's $499," said Munster. "Like $399."
iPhone: Apple Making All the Wrong Moves
Todd Sullivan submits: Last week I wrote a post on the iPhone in which I opined that the AT&T (NYSE: T - News) lockup was a mistake for Apple (NasdaqGS: AAPL), and that the real winner in all this was AT&T.
The #1 response from readers I received (other than I was a moron) was that this "was a short term arrangement that all carriers do, within six months the iPhone will be available to all carriers." Hold the phone (pun intended) - it would appear that the iPhone will only be available to the 47 million AT&T subscribers for the next five years!
USA Today reports the supposed half-decade deal also precludes Apple from developing a CDMA handset in that time. It would also appear that the arrogance and dismissive attitude Apple took with carriers during negotiations may come back to bite them. Word is that the #2 carrier in the US, Verizon, will introduce its own version and is claiming it will be an iPhone-killer. According to Denny Strigl, Verizon CEO, "We do have a very good response in the mill. You'll see that from us in the late summer."
Rather than have a market all to itself for some time by playing nice with all carriers, the attitude Apple took has caused a rush to introduce like versions to coincide with its launch. Now not only will the iPhone not be available to the other 140 million plus US cell phone users, but those folks will be able to get their own version from other carriers this summer. Anyone want to bet it will be available for far less than the $500 -$600 the iPhone will be?
Now, any Verizon offering will not have the iPod application that the iPhone will have, but if my many critics are to be believed, that was not going to be a major selling point anyway, so the elimination of it will really be an insignificant factor to those purchasing these phones from Verizon. What will matter? Price. If consumers are able to avoid cancellation fees, can get a similar phone at a cheaper price and already have an iPod, there is zero incentive to rush out and get the iPhone.
This also means that the 10 million units Apple plans to have sold by the end of 2008 will be done to 47 million AT&T subscribers, meaning one in five will have one? Doubt it.
How long does anyone think it will be before Research in Motion Limited's (NasdaqGS: RIMM) Blackberry has a version out there that will be available through all carriers?
When entering a new business, it is not really a good idea to strut in and tell folks who have been doing it for many years how much better you are than them and why you are going to dictate what they can or cannot do. All reports out there indicate this is what Jobs did and in the process, seems to have caused other carriers to compete with him rather than work with him. Bottom line is that he needs their networks for his product; he seems to have forgotten this or chose not to recognize it.
I said before that the iPhone, as things are currently configured, will be nothing more than a niche product and that it will be Apple's first stumble after a string of hits in recent years. If the USA today article is correct, the AT&T deal all but assures it.
The #1 response from readers I received (other than I was a moron) was that this "was a short term arrangement that all carriers do, within six months the iPhone will be available to all carriers." Hold the phone (pun intended) - it would appear that the iPhone will only be available to the 47 million AT&T subscribers for the next five years!
USA Today reports the supposed half-decade deal also precludes Apple from developing a CDMA handset in that time. It would also appear that the arrogance and dismissive attitude Apple took with carriers during negotiations may come back to bite them. Word is that the #2 carrier in the US, Verizon, will introduce its own version and is claiming it will be an iPhone-killer. According to Denny Strigl, Verizon CEO, "We do have a very good response in the mill. You'll see that from us in the late summer."
Rather than have a market all to itself for some time by playing nice with all carriers, the attitude Apple took has caused a rush to introduce like versions to coincide with its launch. Now not only will the iPhone not be available to the other 140 million plus US cell phone users, but those folks will be able to get their own version from other carriers this summer. Anyone want to bet it will be available for far less than the $500 -$600 the iPhone will be?
Now, any Verizon offering will not have the iPod application that the iPhone will have, but if my many critics are to be believed, that was not going to be a major selling point anyway, so the elimination of it will really be an insignificant factor to those purchasing these phones from Verizon. What will matter? Price. If consumers are able to avoid cancellation fees, can get a similar phone at a cheaper price and already have an iPod, there is zero incentive to rush out and get the iPhone.
This also means that the 10 million units Apple plans to have sold by the end of 2008 will be done to 47 million AT&T subscribers, meaning one in five will have one? Doubt it.
How long does anyone think it will be before Research in Motion Limited's (NasdaqGS: RIMM) Blackberry has a version out there that will be available through all carriers?
When entering a new business, it is not really a good idea to strut in and tell folks who have been doing it for many years how much better you are than them and why you are going to dictate what they can or cannot do. All reports out there indicate this is what Jobs did and in the process, seems to have caused other carriers to compete with him rather than work with him. Bottom line is that he needs their networks for his product; he seems to have forgotten this or chose not to recognize it.
I said before that the iPhone, as things are currently configured, will be nothing more than a niche product and that it will be Apple's first stumble after a string of hits in recent years. If the USA today article is correct, the AT&T deal all but assures it.
2007年5月23日星期三
Verizon to Reveal iPhone Competitor This Summer
Verizon says it will have an answer to AT&T's iPhone by late summer
Although the iPhone now appears to be AT&T’s ace in the hole, Verizon actually had first dibs on the iPhone, but refused. Reports back in January said that Apple approached Verizon with the iPhone, but the carrier turned it down because it felt that Apple’s terms for exclusivity were unreasonable.
“We said no [to the iPhone offer]. We have nothing bad to say about the Apple iPhone. We just couldn't reach a deal that was mutually beneficial,” said Verizon Wireless vice president Jim Gerace.
Verizon, however, appears to have no regrets on passing up the iPhone, and even believes that the exclusivity of the phone won’t do much to help AT&T. Instead, Verizon believes that it has a superior network and cellular technology.
“The issue is not the Apple-ness of the iPhone itself, but with the cellular network that it is running on,” said Denny Strigl, Verizon’s chief operating officer, insinuating that AT&T’s network is sub-par. “That will be the true test of the iPhone: What will the iPhone experience be?”
Verizon isn’t going to simply play the waiting game while AT&T flashes its iPhone product on every advertising medium available. Although the carrier won’t be getting any Apple products in the near future, Strigl confirmed with USA Today that Verizon is already working with an unnamed manufacturer on a phone that will directly compete against the iPhone.“We do have a very good response in the mill,” the Verizon COO said. “You'll see that from us in the late summer.”
Although the iPhone now appears to be AT&T’s ace in the hole, Verizon actually had first dibs on the iPhone, but refused. Reports back in January said that Apple approached Verizon with the iPhone, but the carrier turned it down because it felt that Apple’s terms for exclusivity were unreasonable.
“We said no [to the iPhone offer]. We have nothing bad to say about the Apple iPhone. We just couldn't reach a deal that was mutually beneficial,” said Verizon Wireless vice president Jim Gerace.
Verizon, however, appears to have no regrets on passing up the iPhone, and even believes that the exclusivity of the phone won’t do much to help AT&T. Instead, Verizon believes that it has a superior network and cellular technology.
“The issue is not the Apple-ness of the iPhone itself, but with the cellular network that it is running on,” said Denny Strigl, Verizon’s chief operating officer, insinuating that AT&T’s network is sub-par. “That will be the true test of the iPhone: What will the iPhone experience be?”
Verizon isn’t going to simply play the waiting game while AT&T flashes its iPhone product on every advertising medium available. Although the carrier won’t be getting any Apple products in the near future, Strigl confirmed with USA Today that Verizon is already working with an unnamed manufacturer on a phone that will directly compete against the iPhone.“We do have a very good response in the mill,” the Verizon COO said. “You'll see that from us in the late summer.”
Apple's iPhone and the Future of Qualcomm: Part II
Sramana Mitra submits: Last week I wrote "Apple's iPhone and the Future of Qualcomm" (NasdaqGS: QCOM) and it generated a huge amount of controversy. My main point in the iPhone series is that if iPhone succeeds in becoming the industry galvanizing event that I think it will be (even if the product itself is a limited success for Apple), it will impact a lot of players in the eco-system.
One such player is Qualcomm, who owns most of the IP around CDMA, one of the two alternate network standards. The other one, ofcourse, is GSM. I suggested that if the world unites under one standard, and if that standard is GSM, then Qualcomm has trouble ahead. [There are 2 IFs here, folks …]
Readers pointed out that I have not taken into consideration the fact that Qualcomm owns a lot of the WCDMA patents as well.
In your recent blog, you state that the iPhone going with GSM(Cinglar) is bad news for Qualcomm. What you fail to mention is that Cingular/ATT is now rapidly upgrading their network to WCDMA to get faster data rates. Qualcomm is a leader in WCDMA and does sell chips and receive royalties. So, if Apple never plans to upgrade the iPhone to WCDMA, then your arguement would be correct. But, given that the iPhone could greatly benefit from a high speed data connection, logic might say that they would, at some time, move towards WCDMA, as this is what the Cingular network is doing. This would seem to be a benefit to Qualcomm.
(This reader requested anonymity, but was thoughtful and data-driven, unlike many others who suggested I stop blogging altogether because they disliked so much my analysis!)
I agree, that there is a very strong likelihood that Apple’s 3G strategy could include WCDMA, given that they would likely need to work with Verizon to win market share in the foreseeable future. My question, however, remains: Does Qualcomm’s WCDMA royalties compare with what they have in CDMA? Will it be a meaningful substitute financially? And will WCDMA win over and / or be an essential component of 3G/4G GSM in the long run?
It is precisely on this question that the opinion differs. Some say, “Yes, in fact, this is what made Qualcomm a hot stock. The fact that 80% of the world is GSM, but is migrating towards WCDMA, for which Qualcomm has chips and gets the same royalties as CDMA, because the essential patents are the same. Nokia (NYSE: NOK - News) is fighting this hard, but I think some agreement will happen.” Key question to ask: How fast will the GSM to WCDMA transition be? Will it be global? Are Qualcomm’s projections realistic? And will WCDMA be as big a building block of 3G/4G GSM / UMTS?
Morningstar says:
Nokia is trying to obtain a lower royalty rate for the next generation of mobile phones (or 3G WCDMA) by arguing that Qualcomm’s share of the intellectual property (NYSE: IP - News) behind the 3G WCDMA standard is much lower than its share of the IP behind the CDMA standard. In addition, Nokia’s share of the IP behind the WCDMA is second only to Qualcomm and much larger than it was in the CDMA standard. Nokia therefore argues it should be allowed to pay a lower royalty rate on WCDMA handsets. Qualcomm currently receives a royalty rate of between 4% and 5% on the sale of every CDMA- or WCDMA-based handset, with the royalty rate being the same regardless of whether it is CDMA or WCDMA technology.
Qualcomm’s future, therefore, relies on two things: WCDMA winning over GSM (UMTS/HSDPA) as the 3G standard, and CDMA sustaining itself, especially in the emerging markets, continuing to provide a strong royalty stream. (Note: Low-end phones on CDMA will also suffer from lower royalty revenue due to dropping handset prices, but that’s a totally different issue.)
Well, I am a huge fan of IP-Licensing business models. In fact, Qualcomm’s IP Licensing business QTL has an operating margin of 87%, and even if it drops a few points, it is unlikely to drop below 80%. QTL posted revenue of $759 million (34% of total). Whether this business will continue to thrive at the same growth levels or not depends on how the standards war fares in the upcoming years and whether a universal standard emerges in the next 5-7 years.
So what’s iPhone’s role in all this? As another reader points out:
If rumors are to be believed, then Apple tried to pitch the iPhone to Verizon first (which would have been a CDMA product). Only after Verizon walked away, did Apple pursue Cingular with a GSM variant. GSM, of course, also makes the most sense from a global perspective for Apple because it can then leverage the product throughout LTA, APAC and Europe (whereas the vast majority of CDMA subscribers are isolated in North America, Japan, Korea and India). And if Cingular’s exclusive on the iPhone expires, Apple would gladly create a CDMA version if Verizon is willing to commit to volume levels that create a sound business case.
All of the above is true. Apple is not YET in the position to call the shots on standards. If the iPhone becomes a huge success, then they COULD take the position that they would only support one standard, but this won’t be for 3-5 years. Meanwhile, the iPhone needs to establish itself as a Product success first, not just a PR success. Again, lots of IFs.
To end, I believe, that in the 5-7 year window, an opportunity for the market to converge on one standard would arise. If the iPhone does become successful, they would be in a position to drive this standardization, and if the Nokia-Qualcomm situation is any indicator, they would have allies in the market. Those include, at least, Nokia, Eriksson, Motorola, and possibly also Alcatel, Philips and others.
Why? Because, these are the companies who are the owners of the GSM patents, and those amongst them who manufacture handsets, negotiate cross-licensing agreements with each other, and don’t have to shell out the 5% royalty that they do to Qualcomm, if CDMA or WCDMA became the standard.
You can read more of the discussion around the previous article, under comments. And if you participate in the discussion, please refrain from using rude language, and stick to data and logic, but by all means, do feel free to disagree with me.
One such player is Qualcomm, who owns most of the IP around CDMA, one of the two alternate network standards. The other one, ofcourse, is GSM. I suggested that if the world unites under one standard, and if that standard is GSM, then Qualcomm has trouble ahead. [There are 2 IFs here, folks …]
Readers pointed out that I have not taken into consideration the fact that Qualcomm owns a lot of the WCDMA patents as well.
In your recent blog, you state that the iPhone going with GSM(Cinglar) is bad news for Qualcomm. What you fail to mention is that Cingular/ATT is now rapidly upgrading their network to WCDMA to get faster data rates. Qualcomm is a leader in WCDMA and does sell chips and receive royalties. So, if Apple never plans to upgrade the iPhone to WCDMA, then your arguement would be correct. But, given that the iPhone could greatly benefit from a high speed data connection, logic might say that they would, at some time, move towards WCDMA, as this is what the Cingular network is doing. This would seem to be a benefit to Qualcomm.
(This reader requested anonymity, but was thoughtful and data-driven, unlike many others who suggested I stop blogging altogether because they disliked so much my analysis!)
I agree, that there is a very strong likelihood that Apple’s 3G strategy could include WCDMA, given that they would likely need to work with Verizon to win market share in the foreseeable future. My question, however, remains: Does Qualcomm’s WCDMA royalties compare with what they have in CDMA? Will it be a meaningful substitute financially? And will WCDMA win over and / or be an essential component of 3G/4G GSM in the long run?
It is precisely on this question that the opinion differs. Some say, “Yes, in fact, this is what made Qualcomm a hot stock. The fact that 80% of the world is GSM, but is migrating towards WCDMA, for which Qualcomm has chips and gets the same royalties as CDMA, because the essential patents are the same. Nokia (NYSE: NOK - News) is fighting this hard, but I think some agreement will happen.” Key question to ask: How fast will the GSM to WCDMA transition be? Will it be global? Are Qualcomm’s projections realistic? And will WCDMA be as big a building block of 3G/4G GSM / UMTS?
Morningstar says:
Nokia is trying to obtain a lower royalty rate for the next generation of mobile phones (or 3G WCDMA) by arguing that Qualcomm’s share of the intellectual property (NYSE: IP - News) behind the 3G WCDMA standard is much lower than its share of the IP behind the CDMA standard. In addition, Nokia’s share of the IP behind the WCDMA is second only to Qualcomm and much larger than it was in the CDMA standard. Nokia therefore argues it should be allowed to pay a lower royalty rate on WCDMA handsets. Qualcomm currently receives a royalty rate of between 4% and 5% on the sale of every CDMA- or WCDMA-based handset, with the royalty rate being the same regardless of whether it is CDMA or WCDMA technology.
Qualcomm’s future, therefore, relies on two things: WCDMA winning over GSM (UMTS/HSDPA) as the 3G standard, and CDMA sustaining itself, especially in the emerging markets, continuing to provide a strong royalty stream. (Note: Low-end phones on CDMA will also suffer from lower royalty revenue due to dropping handset prices, but that’s a totally different issue.)
Well, I am a huge fan of IP-Licensing business models. In fact, Qualcomm’s IP Licensing business QTL has an operating margin of 87%, and even if it drops a few points, it is unlikely to drop below 80%. QTL posted revenue of $759 million (34% of total). Whether this business will continue to thrive at the same growth levels or not depends on how the standards war fares in the upcoming years and whether a universal standard emerges in the next 5-7 years.
So what’s iPhone’s role in all this? As another reader points out:
If rumors are to be believed, then Apple tried to pitch the iPhone to Verizon first (which would have been a CDMA product). Only after Verizon walked away, did Apple pursue Cingular with a GSM variant. GSM, of course, also makes the most sense from a global perspective for Apple because it can then leverage the product throughout LTA, APAC and Europe (whereas the vast majority of CDMA subscribers are isolated in North America, Japan, Korea and India). And if Cingular’s exclusive on the iPhone expires, Apple would gladly create a CDMA version if Verizon is willing to commit to volume levels that create a sound business case.
All of the above is true. Apple is not YET in the position to call the shots on standards. If the iPhone becomes a huge success, then they COULD take the position that they would only support one standard, but this won’t be for 3-5 years. Meanwhile, the iPhone needs to establish itself as a Product success first, not just a PR success. Again, lots of IFs.
To end, I believe, that in the 5-7 year window, an opportunity for the market to converge on one standard would arise. If the iPhone does become successful, they would be in a position to drive this standardization, and if the Nokia-Qualcomm situation is any indicator, they would have allies in the market. Those include, at least, Nokia, Eriksson, Motorola, and possibly also Alcatel, Philips and others.
Why? Because, these are the companies who are the owners of the GSM patents, and those amongst them who manufacture handsets, negotiate cross-licensing agreements with each other, and don’t have to shell out the 5% royalty that they do to Qualcomm, if CDMA or WCDMA became the standard.
You can read more of the discussion around the previous article, under comments. And if you participate in the discussion, please refrain from using rude language, and stick to data and logic, but by all means, do feel free to disagree with me.
2007年5月22日星期二
Fidelity ready for iPhone, other devices
Editor’s Note: This story is reprinted from Computerworld. For more Mac coverage, visit Computerworld’s Macintosh Knowledge Center.
Apple’s iPhone, which debuts next month, may be primarily a consumer multimedia device and wireless phone, but it is very much on the minds of some IT managers, including Fidelity Investments’ Joseph Ferra.
Ferra, the chief wireless officer at the Boston-based investment firm, is tasked with making Fidelity’s Web-based investment tools and its Boston Coach car service available on any wireless device. Fidelity started early, in 1998, and now has about 1 million customers, Ferra told IT managers at the Computerworld Mobile & Wireless World conference in Orlando Tuesday.
The iPhone is one of the handhelds that Fidelity wants to be ready to support by maximizing Fidelity’s Web-based investment tools for the size of the iPhone screen and other measurements, as the company does with many other devices.
Fidelity uses management tools that assist in finding the browser being used by a customer, as well as the device model, the mobile carrier, screen size, resolution and the number of keys on the keyboard. All that information helps Fidelity better serve the customer, he said.
AT&T will be the exclusive U.S. carrier for iPhone for five years, but Ferra was quick to take note that Verizon Wireless, AT&T’s biggest rival, may have an answer to iPhone in late summer, according to a report in USA Today. Ferra even projected an image of a black, long and slim device with identifying brands blurred out that he said is “probably” what Verizon will produce.
Fidelity customers “want to do everything from Fidelity.com” on a handheld device, Ferra said. “This [device] will be the predominate way that people function once we give them the capability to take advantage of it.”
Ferra predicted, without giving any dates, that mobile devices in the U.S. will take on the functions of car keys and payment systems, uses that are almost commonplace in some countries such as South Korea. “This kind of device will take the place of a lot of functions,” he added.
Fidelity has become so keen on handheld wireless uses that it now benchmarks the capabilities of its wireless applications against Amazon.com and eBay, Ferra said. In the past, Fidelity Anywhere judged itself against its financial services competitors on factors such as styles of devices supported, ease of use, and lack of problems using them. But going against Amazon and others, Fidelity realizes it needs to keep improving, Ferra said.
Ferra said Fidelity is open to new devices, including those with multimedia capabilities, because it is interested in sending a market recap video from its analysts to investors at the end of each day.
While the iPhone’s emergence didn’t trouble Ferra, it was obvious that IT managers in attendance at Mobile & Wireless World are less accepting. In a survey question for the entire crowd, nearly 85 percent said they wanted to have standard mobile and wireless platforms and devices, while the remainder were willing to support whatever device new workers wanted to use.
Apple’s iPhone, which debuts next month, may be primarily a consumer multimedia device and wireless phone, but it is very much on the minds of some IT managers, including Fidelity Investments’ Joseph Ferra.
Ferra, the chief wireless officer at the Boston-based investment firm, is tasked with making Fidelity’s Web-based investment tools and its Boston Coach car service available on any wireless device. Fidelity started early, in 1998, and now has about 1 million customers, Ferra told IT managers at the Computerworld Mobile & Wireless World conference in Orlando Tuesday.
The iPhone is one of the handhelds that Fidelity wants to be ready to support by maximizing Fidelity’s Web-based investment tools for the size of the iPhone screen and other measurements, as the company does with many other devices.
Fidelity uses management tools that assist in finding the browser being used by a customer, as well as the device model, the mobile carrier, screen size, resolution and the number of keys on the keyboard. All that information helps Fidelity better serve the customer, he said.
AT&T will be the exclusive U.S. carrier for iPhone for five years, but Ferra was quick to take note that Verizon Wireless, AT&T’s biggest rival, may have an answer to iPhone in late summer, according to a report in USA Today. Ferra even projected an image of a black, long and slim device with identifying brands blurred out that he said is “probably” what Verizon will produce.
Fidelity customers “want to do everything from Fidelity.com” on a handheld device, Ferra said. “This [device] will be the predominate way that people function once we give them the capability to take advantage of it.”
Ferra predicted, without giving any dates, that mobile devices in the U.S. will take on the functions of car keys and payment systems, uses that are almost commonplace in some countries such as South Korea. “This kind of device will take the place of a lot of functions,” he added.
Fidelity has become so keen on handheld wireless uses that it now benchmarks the capabilities of its wireless applications against Amazon.com and eBay, Ferra said. In the past, Fidelity Anywhere judged itself against its financial services competitors on factors such as styles of devices supported, ease of use, and lack of problems using them. But going against Amazon and others, Fidelity realizes it needs to keep improving, Ferra said.
Ferra said Fidelity is open to new devices, including those with multimedia capabilities, because it is interested in sending a market recap video from its analysts to investors at the end of each day.
While the iPhone’s emergence didn’t trouble Ferra, it was obvious that IT managers in attendance at Mobile & Wireless World are less accepting. In a survey question for the entire crowd, nearly 85 percent said they wanted to have standard mobile and wireless platforms and devices, while the remainder were willing to support whatever device new workers wanted to use.
T-Mobile Goes After iPhone with Wing
T-Mobile unveiled its latest smart phone offering on Tuesday with Apple's iPhone clearly in its sights. Like the iPhone, the Wing offers GSM/GPRS/EDGE data support, Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth, a 2 megapixel camera, and a built-in Web browser and email application. Unlike the iPhone, the Wing runs Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6 operating system.
The Wing (left) and iPhone (right)
Although the Wing does include a touch screen interface, it does not offer the iPhone's multi-touch technology, and it sports a slide-out mini keyboard. In comparison, Apple's iPhone offers an on-screen keyboard with predictive typing technology.
The Wing even falls in the same price range as the iPhone before rebates. the wing is priced at US$499.99, while the iPhone will be priced at $499 for the 4GB model or $599 for the 8GB version. After rebates and agreeing to a two-year contract, the Wing drops to $299.99.
While the Wing is available today and Apple's iPhone won't be available until late June, T-Mobile's offering hasn't garnered nearly as much consumer interest. If that is any indication, T-Mobile's new consumer-oriented smart phone won't offer the iPhone much competition.
The Wing (left) and iPhone (right)
Although the Wing does include a touch screen interface, it does not offer the iPhone's multi-touch technology, and it sports a slide-out mini keyboard. In comparison, Apple's iPhone offers an on-screen keyboard with predictive typing technology.
The Wing even falls in the same price range as the iPhone before rebates. the wing is priced at US$499.99, while the iPhone will be priced at $499 for the 4GB model or $599 for the 8GB version. After rebates and agreeing to a two-year contract, the Wing drops to $299.99.
While the Wing is available today and Apple's iPhone won't be available until late June, T-Mobile's offering hasn't garnered nearly as much consumer interest. If that is any indication, T-Mobile's new consumer-oriented smart phone won't offer the iPhone much competition.
Will The iPhone Be Available Without A Contract?
According to The Boy Genius, the answer to that question is yes! It is showing off some internal AT&T screen shots that indicate the iPhone will be available to prepaid customers. The beauty of the prepaid model is that you can enjoy all the positive aspects of the iPhone without being locked into a multiyear contract.
The spied screen shots don't say how much any prepaid accounts would cost or what the data-usage fee structure would be like. Right now, AT&T's prepaid accounts are affordable and offer a lot of flexibility. Who knows if AT&T will revise its prepaid offerings before the iPhone launches or if it will hatch new prepaid offerings specifically for the iPhone. Either way, the notion of using an iPhone without a lengthy contract is highly appealing.
Here's what Boy Genius said:
According to some newly surfaced AT&T account codes ... we can infer that the iPhone will be available to Go Phone Pay As You Go subscribers, Go Phone Pick Your Plan subscribers ... and postpaid users.
This is good news for AT&T customers whose accounts are not ready for upgrades. It's also good news for non-AT&T customers who perhaps were on the fence about switching from their current carrier to AT&T.
For people who want the iPhone for its music and other media features, but not necessarily its telephony, this provides them with the justification they need. They'll be able to buy the iPhone and use the phone features at will, all while being able to enjoy the device for its other attributes.
One negative here, however, is that the prepaid accounts may limit the iPhone's true potential as a telephone. There's no word if features such as the visual voice mail would be available to prepaid customers.
The spied screen shots don't say how much any prepaid accounts would cost or what the data-usage fee structure would be like. Right now, AT&T's prepaid accounts are affordable and offer a lot of flexibility. Who knows if AT&T will revise its prepaid offerings before the iPhone launches or if it will hatch new prepaid offerings specifically for the iPhone. Either way, the notion of using an iPhone without a lengthy contract is highly appealing.
Here's what Boy Genius said:
According to some newly surfaced AT&T account codes ... we can infer that the iPhone will be available to Go Phone Pay As You Go subscribers, Go Phone Pick Your Plan subscribers ... and postpaid users.
This is good news for AT&T customers whose accounts are not ready for upgrades. It's also good news for non-AT&T customers who perhaps were on the fence about switching from their current carrier to AT&T.
For people who want the iPhone for its music and other media features, but not necessarily its telephony, this provides them with the justification they need. They'll be able to buy the iPhone and use the phone features at will, all while being able to enjoy the device for its other attributes.
One negative here, however, is that the prepaid accounts may limit the iPhone's true potential as a telephone. There's no word if features such as the visual voice mail would be available to prepaid customers.
2007年5月21日星期一
AT&T steps up Cingular rebranding ahead of iPhone
NEW YORK (Reuters) - AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T - news) said it will step up its rebranding campaign at Cingular wireless stores, seeking to raise AT&T's profile ahead of the launch of Apple Inc.'s (Nasdaq:AAPL - news) iPhone.
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The company will replace the Cingular name with AT&T in the interiors of its 1,800 shops on Monday, ahead of the iPhone launch in late June.
AT&T acquired BellSouth Corp. last year, a move that consolidated its ownership of the two companies' wireless joint venture, Cingular, which is being rebranded as AT&T.
"The iPhone is one of the most anticipated handsets ever in the wireless industry, and we want to make sure that every drop of equity from the iPhone accrues to the AT&T brand," AT&T spokesman Michael Coe said.
"We want to be as far along as possible with our rebranding in advance of the launch of the iPhone."
AT&T, however, said it will keep the exterior signs of most of the stores unchanged for now, showing it would take time to dismantle the well-recognized wireless brand.
The rebranding is expected to take a year or so, although AT&T has not set a deadline. The company has said it will keep an eye on consumer surveys to assess the public's recognition of AT&T as a wireless provider.
"Our branding campaign is performing above projected levels, we are ahead of schedule, and customer response has been very positive," Chief Operating Officer Randall Stephenson said in a statement.
AT&T said it was launching a new advertising campaign with the tagline: "Your world is wireless. AT&T is wireless."
ADVERTISEMENT
The company will replace the Cingular name with AT&T in the interiors of its 1,800 shops on Monday, ahead of the iPhone launch in late June.
AT&T acquired BellSouth Corp. last year, a move that consolidated its ownership of the two companies' wireless joint venture, Cingular, which is being rebranded as AT&T.
"The iPhone is one of the most anticipated handsets ever in the wireless industry, and we want to make sure that every drop of equity from the iPhone accrues to the AT&T brand," AT&T spokesman Michael Coe said.
"We want to be as far along as possible with our rebranding in advance of the launch of the iPhone."
AT&T, however, said it will keep the exterior signs of most of the stores unchanged for now, showing it would take time to dismantle the well-recognized wireless brand.
The rebranding is expected to take a year or so, although AT&T has not set a deadline. The company has said it will keep an eye on consumer surveys to assess the public's recognition of AT&T as a wireless provider.
"Our branding campaign is performing above projected levels, we are ahead of schedule, and customer response has been very positive," Chief Operating Officer Randall Stephenson said in a statement.
AT&T said it was launching a new advertising campaign with the tagline: "Your world is wireless. AT&T is wireless."
Much Ado About Apple’s iPhone
PARIS, May 20 — Few mobile phones have created more buzz before becoming a reality than Apple’s iPhone — even in Europe and Asia, which will not see the talked-about handset for many months.
Apple says that sales of iPhones will begin in the United States in late June, in Europe later this year and in Asia next year. But the company has been silent on how the iPhone will be distributed in Europe, prompting speculation about operator alliances and retail partnerships.
The approach in the fragmented European market is widely expected to be different from the one employed in the American introduction, which is AT&T’s exclusively.
For European and Asian mobile service providers, the stakes could be high because of Apple’s strong brand loyalty.
Almost half of current iPod owners would consider the iPhone as their next mobile phone, according to a survey of 2,000 Europeans by Canalys, a research firm based in Reading, England. And an online poll conducted in April by the British online publisher Shiny Media found that 25 percent of those surveyed would be willing to switch service providers to own an iPhone.
A determining factor in which mobile carriers offer the iPhone in Europe will be whether it includes the “third generation” mobile network technology that service providers across the Continent have spent so much money to license and build. Apple has said its United States handsets would not employ 3G technology.
If iPhones in Europe support 3G, the two most likely beneficiaries would be 3, a Hutchison Whampoa mobile network that has 3G licenses in Austria, Britain, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Norway and Sweden, and T-Mobile, which has 3G licenses in Austria, Britain and Germany, analysts said.
“Both these operators are the most forward-thinking in how 3G telephones should be brought to consumers,” said Carolina Milanesi, a mobile phone analyst for Gartner in London. “They have the appropriate and futuristic business models necessary for the iPhone already in place.”
Ms. Milanesi cited 3’s new X-Series package, which offers a flat rate for data transmission. T-Mobile, meanwhile, has abandoned the “walled garden” approach to selling services that requires customers to use proprietary products, choosing instead to use the Internet itself and Google as service and content providers, Ms. Milanesi said.
The largest service provider in Europe is Vodafone, but Ms. Milanesi said that Vodafone’s underlying business model might not dovetail easily with the Apple universe. Vodafone uses its own service, Vodafone Live, to sell songs to mobile phone users, and iTunes from Apple could be viewed as a direct rival.
If the iPhone does not initially support 3G in Europe, Apple may combine a range of service providers, said Thomas Husson, an analyst for Jupiter Research in Paris.
That would require Apple to balance the discounts operators give on the phones against Apple’s own sales. “Too large an operator subsidy would kill Apple’s own highly profitable retail sales,” he said.
Apple says that sales of iPhones will begin in the United States in late June, in Europe later this year and in Asia next year. But the company has been silent on how the iPhone will be distributed in Europe, prompting speculation about operator alliances and retail partnerships.
The approach in the fragmented European market is widely expected to be different from the one employed in the American introduction, which is AT&T’s exclusively.
For European and Asian mobile service providers, the stakes could be high because of Apple’s strong brand loyalty.
Almost half of current iPod owners would consider the iPhone as their next mobile phone, according to a survey of 2,000 Europeans by Canalys, a research firm based in Reading, England. And an online poll conducted in April by the British online publisher Shiny Media found that 25 percent of those surveyed would be willing to switch service providers to own an iPhone.
A determining factor in which mobile carriers offer the iPhone in Europe will be whether it includes the “third generation” mobile network technology that service providers across the Continent have spent so much money to license and build. Apple has said its United States handsets would not employ 3G technology.
If iPhones in Europe support 3G, the two most likely beneficiaries would be 3, a Hutchison Whampoa mobile network that has 3G licenses in Austria, Britain, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Norway and Sweden, and T-Mobile, which has 3G licenses in Austria, Britain and Germany, analysts said.
“Both these operators are the most forward-thinking in how 3G telephones should be brought to consumers,” said Carolina Milanesi, a mobile phone analyst for Gartner in London. “They have the appropriate and futuristic business models necessary for the iPhone already in place.”
Ms. Milanesi cited 3’s new X-Series package, which offers a flat rate for data transmission. T-Mobile, meanwhile, has abandoned the “walled garden” approach to selling services that requires customers to use proprietary products, choosing instead to use the Internet itself and Google as service and content providers, Ms. Milanesi said.
The largest service provider in Europe is Vodafone, but Ms. Milanesi said that Vodafone’s underlying business model might not dovetail easily with the Apple universe. Vodafone uses its own service, Vodafone Live, to sell songs to mobile phone users, and iTunes from Apple could be viewed as a direct rival.
If the iPhone does not initially support 3G in Europe, Apple may combine a range of service providers, said Thomas Husson, an analyst for Jupiter Research in Paris.
That would require Apple to balance the discounts operators give on the phones against Apple’s own sales. “Too large an operator subsidy would kill Apple’s own highly profitable retail sales,” he said.
2007年5月20日星期日
Music, video phones may ride iPhone wave
Cell phones sporting bigger screens, music, video and Web-surfing capabilities may try to steal some of the spotlight when Apple Inc.’s iPhone debuts next month.
Although few have seen or used the gadget, it could draw consumer attention to other pricier, high-end handsets, executives at the Reuters Global Technology, Media and Telecoms Summit said this week.
“One of the great advantages of iPhone for us is that it will heat up the music (phone) market,” said Denny Strigl, chief operating officer at Verizon Communications Inc.
“We’re already seeing an interest in music on cell phones we didn’t see just a quarter ago, and the gearing up the industry is doing in preparation for it,” he said.
AT&T Inc. will be the only U.S. carrier to sell the device for at least two years. It will compete with phones made by Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, LG Electronics, Samsung, Palm, and carriers Sprint and Verizon.
While so-called smartphones, which marry music and other media features with data and talk features, have been around for years, their sales remain a fraction of the overall market. Typically they are larger and cost more than average phones.
“We were one of the first to get into the music business, one-and-a-half years ago, and it has been very difficult to get traction,” Strigl said, adding that Verizon will launch new multimedia phones to take on the iPhone.
At $500 to $600, the iPhone’s price tag has been called spectacularly high, possibly opening the door for handset makers with similar models. Still Apple, whose iPod music device and iTunes service dominate the market, expects to sell 10 million of the phones in 2008.
“They (Apple) will bring some things to the table that we have to be responsive to, but we have been investing in this area for some time,” Nokia Chief Financial Officer Rick Simonson said. “We are leading in multimedia convergence.”
Consumers juggling multiple devices — such as a phone, digital music player and personal information assistant — may warm to combined devices, overlooking their steep price tag.
“People are not uncomfortable plopping down a couple of hundred bucks for a music player or an iPod (and) $100 for a voice phone or a PDA,” said AT&T’s group president for operations support, John Stankey. “If you think about what a customer invests to solve a problem...I might suggest that the price isn’t as substantial as it might look.”
Still, Sling Media Chief Executive Blake Krikorian said the touch-screen iPhone, which has only one button, may not convert users for whom text-based wireless communication is key. They may stick with keyboard-based devices like Research In Motion’s Blackberry, or Palm’s Treo.
“I need a keyboard — I still think e-mail is the “killer app” and (iPhone) ain’t that. For that demographic I don’t see it happening,” said Krikorian.
Regardless of the iPhone’s success, convergent devices are poised to grow in popularity, Sony Ericsson President Miles Flint said.
“The phone is capable of doing many other things,” he said. ”People want to have any content, any time, any where on their device and that is leading to the phone being a mobile Internet gateway entry point. the trend is clear.”
Although few have seen or used the gadget, it could draw consumer attention to other pricier, high-end handsets, executives at the Reuters Global Technology, Media and Telecoms Summit said this week.
“One of the great advantages of iPhone for us is that it will heat up the music (phone) market,” said Denny Strigl, chief operating officer at Verizon Communications Inc.
“We’re already seeing an interest in music on cell phones we didn’t see just a quarter ago, and the gearing up the industry is doing in preparation for it,” he said.
AT&T Inc. will be the only U.S. carrier to sell the device for at least two years. It will compete with phones made by Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, LG Electronics, Samsung, Palm, and carriers Sprint and Verizon.
While so-called smartphones, which marry music and other media features with data and talk features, have been around for years, their sales remain a fraction of the overall market. Typically they are larger and cost more than average phones.
“We were one of the first to get into the music business, one-and-a-half years ago, and it has been very difficult to get traction,” Strigl said, adding that Verizon will launch new multimedia phones to take on the iPhone.
At $500 to $600, the iPhone’s price tag has been called spectacularly high, possibly opening the door for handset makers with similar models. Still Apple, whose iPod music device and iTunes service dominate the market, expects to sell 10 million of the phones in 2008.
“They (Apple) will bring some things to the table that we have to be responsive to, but we have been investing in this area for some time,” Nokia Chief Financial Officer Rick Simonson said. “We are leading in multimedia convergence.”
Consumers juggling multiple devices — such as a phone, digital music player and personal information assistant — may warm to combined devices, overlooking their steep price tag.
“People are not uncomfortable plopping down a couple of hundred bucks for a music player or an iPod (and) $100 for a voice phone or a PDA,” said AT&T’s group president for operations support, John Stankey. “If you think about what a customer invests to solve a problem...I might suggest that the price isn’t as substantial as it might look.”
Still, Sling Media Chief Executive Blake Krikorian said the touch-screen iPhone, which has only one button, may not convert users for whom text-based wireless communication is key. They may stick with keyboard-based devices like Research In Motion’s Blackberry, or Palm’s Treo.
“I need a keyboard — I still think e-mail is the “killer app” and (iPhone) ain’t that. For that demographic I don’t see it happening,” said Krikorian.
Regardless of the iPhone’s success, convergent devices are poised to grow in popularity, Sony Ericsson President Miles Flint said.
“The phone is capable of doing many other things,” he said. ”People want to have any content, any time, any where on their device and that is leading to the phone being a mobile Internet gateway entry point. the trend is clear.”
Europeans can't wait to push iPhone's buttons
PARIS: Few mobile phones have created more buzz before becoming a reality than Apple's iPhone.
For weeks, European übergeeks and telecommunications analysts have been angling for a chance to sign the nondisclosure agreement Apple requires before bestowing devices on early users.
For the rest of us in Europe, there are two crucial questions: When and how?
Apple says U.S. sales of iPhones will begin next month, followed later this year in Europe and next year in Asia.
Apple's silence on how the iPhone will be distributed in Europe has prompted speculation about operator alliances and retail partnerships.
The approach in the fragmented European market will almost certainly be different from the one employed in the U.S. rollout, which initially will involve an exclusive deal with AT&T. For providers of mobile phone services, the stakes could be high as a result of the strong brand loyalty Apple products enjoy.
Almost half of current iPod owners have said they would consider the iPhone as their next mobile phone, according to a survey of 2,000 Europeans conducted by Canalys, a research firm based in Reading, England.
An online poll conducted in April by the British online publisher Shiny Media found that 25 percent of those surveyed would be willing to switch service providers to own an iPhone.
In the face of increased competition, service providers will seek to differentiate themselves by carrying the iPhone, said Thomas Husson, an analyst for Jupiter Research in Paris.
A determining factor in who will offer the iPhone in Europe is whether it includes the 3G technology that service providers across the Continent have spent so much money on to acquire.
At least initially, iPhones sold in the United States will not employ 3G technology.
If European versions do, the two most likely beneficiaries would be 3, which has 3G licenses in Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom, and T-Mobile, which has 3G licenses in Germany, Great Britain and Austria.
"Both these operators are the most forward-thinking in how 3G telephones should be brought to consumers," said Carolina Milanesi, a mobile phone analyst in London at Gartner Research.
In the case of 3, Milanesi cited the company's new X Series package, which offers a flat rate for data transmission. This has encouraged some users to link their cellphones to the Slingbox, a device that transmits a home cable TV signal to the Internet.
The story would be different at T-Mobile, which has abandoned the "walled garden" approach to selling services that requires costumers to use proprietary products, Milanesi said.
"T-Mobile uses the Internet itself and Google as service and content providers," Milanesi said. "This stands in total contrast to the Vodaphone approach."
Although Vodaphone is the largest service provider on the Continent, Milanesi said its underlying business model might not dovetail easily with the Apple universe.
Vodaphone currently uses its own service, Vodaphone Live, to sell songs to mobile phone users, so Milanesi said the Apple iTunes service could be viewed as a direct competitor.
If the iPhone does not initially support 3G in Europe, Apple may prefer to combine a range of service providers with a robust retail strategy, said Husson of Jupiter Research.
Adopting that strategy will require Apple to balance the subsidies operators can give on the phones against Apple's own sales. "Too large an operator subsidy would kill Apple's own highly profitable retail sales.
Neil Mawston, an analyst at the U.K.-based Strategy Analytics, said Apple had done an excellent job with the first two legs of market entry - strong brand and strong product - leaving the third leg, distribution, to be decided.
"Geeks and early adopters are the first people Apple will want to target, using the highest margins," Mawston said. "After that it moves on to younger people who will rely on operator subsidies."
Consumers are not the only ones listening to the buzz, Mawston said.
"I cannot imagine that Nokia, which has a 30 to 40 percent market share in Europe, will stay quiet," Mawston said. "There should be some exciting months ahead."
For weeks, European übergeeks and telecommunications analysts have been angling for a chance to sign the nondisclosure agreement Apple requires before bestowing devices on early users.
For the rest of us in Europe, there are two crucial questions: When and how?
Apple says U.S. sales of iPhones will begin next month, followed later this year in Europe and next year in Asia.
Apple's silence on how the iPhone will be distributed in Europe has prompted speculation about operator alliances and retail partnerships.
The approach in the fragmented European market will almost certainly be different from the one employed in the U.S. rollout, which initially will involve an exclusive deal with AT&T. For providers of mobile phone services, the stakes could be high as a result of the strong brand loyalty Apple products enjoy.
Almost half of current iPod owners have said they would consider the iPhone as their next mobile phone, according to a survey of 2,000 Europeans conducted by Canalys, a research firm based in Reading, England.
An online poll conducted in April by the British online publisher Shiny Media found that 25 percent of those surveyed would be willing to switch service providers to own an iPhone.
In the face of increased competition, service providers will seek to differentiate themselves by carrying the iPhone, said Thomas Husson, an analyst for Jupiter Research in Paris.
A determining factor in who will offer the iPhone in Europe is whether it includes the 3G technology that service providers across the Continent have spent so much money on to acquire.
At least initially, iPhones sold in the United States will not employ 3G technology.
If European versions do, the two most likely beneficiaries would be 3, which has 3G licenses in Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom, and T-Mobile, which has 3G licenses in Germany, Great Britain and Austria.
"Both these operators are the most forward-thinking in how 3G telephones should be brought to consumers," said Carolina Milanesi, a mobile phone analyst in London at Gartner Research.
In the case of 3, Milanesi cited the company's new X Series package, which offers a flat rate for data transmission. This has encouraged some users to link their cellphones to the Slingbox, a device that transmits a home cable TV signal to the Internet.
The story would be different at T-Mobile, which has abandoned the "walled garden" approach to selling services that requires costumers to use proprietary products, Milanesi said.
"T-Mobile uses the Internet itself and Google as service and content providers," Milanesi said. "This stands in total contrast to the Vodaphone approach."
Although Vodaphone is the largest service provider on the Continent, Milanesi said its underlying business model might not dovetail easily with the Apple universe.
Vodaphone currently uses its own service, Vodaphone Live, to sell songs to mobile phone users, so Milanesi said the Apple iTunes service could be viewed as a direct competitor.
If the iPhone does not initially support 3G in Europe, Apple may prefer to combine a range of service providers with a robust retail strategy, said Husson of Jupiter Research.
Adopting that strategy will require Apple to balance the subsidies operators can give on the phones against Apple's own sales. "Too large an operator subsidy would kill Apple's own highly profitable retail sales.
Neil Mawston, an analyst at the U.K.-based Strategy Analytics, said Apple had done an excellent job with the first two legs of market entry - strong brand and strong product - leaving the third leg, distribution, to be decided.
"Geeks and early adopters are the first people Apple will want to target, using the highest margins," Mawston said. "After that it moves on to younger people who will rely on operator subsidies."
Consumers are not the only ones listening to the buzz, Mawston said.
"I cannot imagine that Nokia, which has a 30 to 40 percent market share in Europe, will stay quiet," Mawston said. "There should be some exciting months ahead."
2007年5月19日星期六
Engadget Explains iPhone Gaffe
Engadget editor Ryan Block followed up on Wednesday's iPhone mix up with a long apology and explanation of how the popular tech blog received bogus information and why it was posted.
Block's words should ring true for anyone in the news reporting industry: if you have a hot tip that seems rock-solid, you roll with it before anybody else can.
It's quite believable that Engadget couldn't have known in the time allotted that their reporting would send investors, to quote Charlie Daniels, "steppin' and fetchin' like their heads was on fire and their asses was catchin'."
Block posts that the tip came from an internal source at Apple, pulling from an internal memo that circulated among several Apple employees – a memo so correct in form that it fooled even them. The memo stated the hotly anticipated iPhone would be delayed until 2008.
"For a reporter, this kind of thing -- an internal memo to a company's employees -- is solid gold," Block said.
Unfortunately for everybody, the false information sent Apple stocks plummeting in late morning trading, knocking $4 billion of the company's market capitalization. Shares recovered upon news that the memo was bogus.
Block notes that Engadget wasn't the only publication reporting the news, though they may have been the first.
"Given the nature of that news," he writes, "we felt we had an obligation to inform people that Apple had sent out an internal memo in preparation of a delay in the iPhone and Leopard. And so I ran the story; I believe most people in my place would have done the same."
Yes. Yes, we would have.
It's still unclear as to whether Apple will face an investigation from the Security and Exchange Commission for apparent stock manipulation, whether somebody's head will roll down Apple HQ hallways, or whether the memo was just an exquisitely executed prank.
Block's words should ring true for anyone in the news reporting industry: if you have a hot tip that seems rock-solid, you roll with it before anybody else can.
It's quite believable that Engadget couldn't have known in the time allotted that their reporting would send investors, to quote Charlie Daniels, "steppin' and fetchin' like their heads was on fire and their asses was catchin'."
Block posts that the tip came from an internal source at Apple, pulling from an internal memo that circulated among several Apple employees – a memo so correct in form that it fooled even them. The memo stated the hotly anticipated iPhone would be delayed until 2008.
"For a reporter, this kind of thing -- an internal memo to a company's employees -- is solid gold," Block said.
Unfortunately for everybody, the false information sent Apple stocks plummeting in late morning trading, knocking $4 billion of the company's market capitalization. Shares recovered upon news that the memo was bogus.
Block notes that Engadget wasn't the only publication reporting the news, though they may have been the first.
"Given the nature of that news," he writes, "we felt we had an obligation to inform people that Apple had sent out an internal memo in preparation of a delay in the iPhone and Leopard. And so I ran the story; I believe most people in my place would have done the same."
Yes. Yes, we would have.
It's still unclear as to whether Apple will face an investigation from the Security and Exchange Commission for apparent stock manipulation, whether somebody's head will roll down Apple HQ hallways, or whether the memo was just an exquisitely executed prank.
Analyst: The iPhone Really Is the Jesusphone
Tomi T Ahonen, self-proclaimed "world's leading 3G strategy consultant," unabashedly declares:
Much like the Western calendar marks time from before and after Jesus Christ, and how the computer world changed totally by the Macintosh—remembering that Windows is Microsoft's copy of the Mac operating system—I am certain that the mobile telecoms world will count its time in two Eras. The Era BI: time Before the iPhone, and the ERA AI: time After the iPhone.Hit the jump for more of his predictions.
He views the iPhone model of mobile multimedia, multitasking thingamajigger as a new paradigm, on top of which a new Silicon Valley bubble will be built, since "Microsoft, Dell, HP, Intel, IBM, any IT company will suddenly want a cellphone strategy. Mobile experts will suddenly be in short supply," making this "the new dawn of the computer age. The real revival after the dot-com bust."
For all of his hyperbolic bombast, however, he's more than likely spot on in one respect: mobile advertising will probably become more aggressive post-iPhone and iClones, given the range of content that will ostensibly be viewed on them, and to nod his way, the size of the screen.
What do you guys think? Dawn of a new era or over-hyped blip on the gadget radar? How bonkers (or not) is Tomi? – Matt Buchanan
Much like the Western calendar marks time from before and after Jesus Christ, and how the computer world changed totally by the Macintosh—remembering that Windows is Microsoft's copy of the Mac operating system—I am certain that the mobile telecoms world will count its time in two Eras. The Era BI: time Before the iPhone, and the ERA AI: time After the iPhone.Hit the jump for more of his predictions.
He views the iPhone model of mobile multimedia, multitasking thingamajigger as a new paradigm, on top of which a new Silicon Valley bubble will be built, since "Microsoft, Dell, HP, Intel, IBM, any IT company will suddenly want a cellphone strategy. Mobile experts will suddenly be in short supply," making this "the new dawn of the computer age. The real revival after the dot-com bust."
For all of his hyperbolic bombast, however, he's more than likely spot on in one respect: mobile advertising will probably become more aggressive post-iPhone and iClones, given the range of content that will ostensibly be viewed on them, and to nod his way, the size of the screen.
What do you guys think? Dawn of a new era or over-hyped blip on the gadget radar? How bonkers (or not) is Tomi? – Matt Buchanan
Apple looking for personal trainers for their upcoming iPhone
Apple Inc. is currently scheduled to launch their highly anticipated mobile phone product iPhone next month.
And they have now started the hunt to find suitable “iPhone Personal Trainers” to work at its call center for iPhone technical support.
Apple has apparently added two new job openings on their website. These are for iPhone Personal Trainer and iPhone Personal Trainer Team Manager.
The job requirements for the first job states: “As a Personal Trainer in our Telesales you will be the first point of contact for the early adopters, Apple fanatics and Mac enthusiasts. You will get to work at the intersection where imagination meets reality.”
For the second job, Apple requires: “You’ll lead a team of dynamic iPhone Personal Trainers to provide and educate customers on functions and features of the iPhone.”
Popularity: 2%
And they have now started the hunt to find suitable “iPhone Personal Trainers” to work at its call center for iPhone technical support.
Apple has apparently added two new job openings on their website. These are for iPhone Personal Trainer and iPhone Personal Trainer Team Manager.
The job requirements for the first job states: “As a Personal Trainer in our Telesales you will be the first point of contact for the early adopters, Apple fanatics and Mac enthusiasts. You will get to work at the intersection where imagination meets reality.”
For the second job, Apple requires: “You’ll lead a team of dynamic iPhone Personal Trainers to provide and educate customers on functions and features of the iPhone.”
Popularity: 2%
2007年5月17日星期四
U.S. regulators approve Apple's iPhone
SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Apple Inc. said Thursday that U.S. regulators have cleared the way for Apple to begin selling its iPhone cell phone in the U.S. next month.
The Federal Communications Commission signaled its approval with a posting on its Web site early Thursday, which sent Apple (AAPL :
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The iPhone is Apple's boldest attempt to conquer new technology markets since the company launched the original iPod in October 2001.
The phone, which will cost $500 and be available initially to only AT&T Wireless customers, signifies how strongly Apple believes it needs to diversify from its core Macintosh computer line and turn itself into an all-inclusive media-device company.
Apple unveiled the iPhone in early January. The new touch-screen phone will be able to play music, surf the Internet and take pictures, among other functions.
"Apple is going to reinvent the phone," Jobs said on Jan. 9, after unveiling the phone during a keynote speech at Macworld, an Apple-focused trade show in San Francisco. "After today, nobody is going to look at these [other mobile phones] the same way again."
The iPhone uses a new technology called multitouch to do away with the traditional keyboard found on most phones or personal digital assistants, and replaces it with a screen upon which "buttons" will appear for different functions such as its built-in iPod, phone and Web surfing.
It will also have a 3.5-inch diagonal screen and be 11.6 millimeters thick. Apple said that the phone will have a 2-megapixel camera, instant text-messaging capacity, iTunes sync and a visual voice-mail system, which will allow users to read a list of people who called.
Several iPhone accessories will also be available in June, including Apple's new, remarkably compact Bluetooth headset. Ben Charny is a MarketWatch reporter based in San Francisco.
The Federal Communications Commission signaled its approval with a posting on its Web site early Thursday, which sent Apple (AAPL :
Apple Inc
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Sponsored by:
AAPL109.44, +2.10, +2.0%) shares up 2% to $109.44
The iPhone is Apple's boldest attempt to conquer new technology markets since the company launched the original iPod in October 2001.
The phone, which will cost $500 and be available initially to only AT&T Wireless customers, signifies how strongly Apple believes it needs to diversify from its core Macintosh computer line and turn itself into an all-inclusive media-device company.
Apple unveiled the iPhone in early January. The new touch-screen phone will be able to play music, surf the Internet and take pictures, among other functions.
"Apple is going to reinvent the phone," Jobs said on Jan. 9, after unveiling the phone during a keynote speech at Macworld, an Apple-focused trade show in San Francisco. "After today, nobody is going to look at these [other mobile phones] the same way again."
The iPhone uses a new technology called multitouch to do away with the traditional keyboard found on most phones or personal digital assistants, and replaces it with a screen upon which "buttons" will appear for different functions such as its built-in iPod, phone and Web surfing.
It will also have a 3.5-inch diagonal screen and be 11.6 millimeters thick. Apple said that the phone will have a 2-megapixel camera, instant text-messaging capacity, iTunes sync and a visual voice-mail system, which will allow users to read a list of people who called.
Several iPhone accessories will also be available in June, including Apple's new, remarkably compact Bluetooth headset. Ben Charny is a MarketWatch reporter based in San Francisco.
FCC approves iPhone
San Francisco (IDGNS) - The
Federal Communications Commission' name=c1> SEARCHNews News Photos Images Web' name=c3> Federal Communications Commission approved Apple's iPhone, clearing the way for the combined phone and music player to hit the shelves.
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Apple expects to begin selling the phones in late June.
Some of the FCC documents confirm a few features of the phone, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and show that it will operate in the 1900MHz and 850MHz frequency bands.
That means that despite the phone's high price, users won't be able to roam with it into Europe, where operators use different frequencies. The phone uses GSM technology and the low-speed GPRS wireless data standard. Apple has said the phone will ship initially only in the U.S., but many GSM phones today, even on the low end, are capable of operating in both Europe and the U.S.
Eager potential users who hoped for a faster data connection will be disappointed that the approval is only for GPRS, which delivers data rates comparable to dial-up. Many operators, including Apple partner AT&T, have upgraded from GPRS to deliver download speeds of about 500Kbps or more.
The FCC also released correspondence regarding Apple's requests that the agency keep some documents private. Apple asked the FCC not to release documents that include photos of the phone or the phone's user manual for 45 days after certification. Apple asked that other documents, such as diagrams, a schematic of the radio, the radio bill of materials, and operational descriptions, remain private indefinitely. The FCC agreed to the requests.
The long, public FCC certification process may have been the reason Apple decided uncharacteristically to announce the iPhone in January, six months in advance. Rather than let rumors leak out based on FCC filings, Apple may have decided to tell the public about the iPhone itself.
AT&T, which will exclusively sell the phone initially, began last week giving permission to employees who are testing the phones to take the phones outside of their offices for the first time, according to an AT&T employee who asked not to be named. Features on the phones are being activated individually, and so far testers can't play music, watch videos, or use the visual voicemail features, the employee said.
Two versions of the iPhone will become available initially. The 4GB phone will cost $499 with a two-year contract with AT&T, and the 8GB phone will sell for $599.
The AppleInsider blog reported on the FCC approval and has also posted many of the documents for easy viewing on its site.
Apple requires approval from the FCC to sell devices like the iPhone that operate on the public airwaves.
Federal Communications Commission' name=c1> SEARCHNews News Photos Images Web' name=c3> Federal Communications Commission approved Apple's iPhone, clearing the way for the combined phone and music player to hit the shelves.
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Apple expects to begin selling the phones in late June.
Some of the FCC documents confirm a few features of the phone, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and show that it will operate in the 1900MHz and 850MHz frequency bands.
That means that despite the phone's high price, users won't be able to roam with it into Europe, where operators use different frequencies. The phone uses GSM technology and the low-speed GPRS wireless data standard. Apple has said the phone will ship initially only in the U.S., but many GSM phones today, even on the low end, are capable of operating in both Europe and the U.S.
Eager potential users who hoped for a faster data connection will be disappointed that the approval is only for GPRS, which delivers data rates comparable to dial-up. Many operators, including Apple partner AT&T, have upgraded from GPRS to deliver download speeds of about 500Kbps or more.
The FCC also released correspondence regarding Apple's requests that the agency keep some documents private. Apple asked the FCC not to release documents that include photos of the phone or the phone's user manual for 45 days after certification. Apple asked that other documents, such as diagrams, a schematic of the radio, the radio bill of materials, and operational descriptions, remain private indefinitely. The FCC agreed to the requests.
The long, public FCC certification process may have been the reason Apple decided uncharacteristically to announce the iPhone in January, six months in advance. Rather than let rumors leak out based on FCC filings, Apple may have decided to tell the public about the iPhone itself.
AT&T, which will exclusively sell the phone initially, began last week giving permission to employees who are testing the phones to take the phones outside of their offices for the first time, according to an AT&T employee who asked not to be named. Features on the phones are being activated individually, and so far testers can't play music, watch videos, or use the visual voicemail features, the employee said.
Two versions of the iPhone will become available initially. The 4GB phone will cost $499 with a two-year contract with AT&T, and the 8GB phone will sell for $599.
The AppleInsider blog reported on the FCC approval and has also posted many of the documents for easy viewing on its site.
Apple requires approval from the FCC to sell devices like the iPhone that operate on the public airwaves.
2007年5月16日星期三
Engadget sends Apple stock plunging on iPhone rumor
Millions of people, from hardcore computer geeks to high-finance Wall Street martini drinkers, hang on every word related to Apple. Sometimes, that can have consequences.
Engadget posted a story Wednesday morning at 11:49am ET claiming that Apple was about to announce another delay of Leopard, the next version of Mac OS X, as well as a delay for the iPhone, perhaps the most hyped gadget of all time.
"This one doesn't bode well for Mac fans and the iPhone-hopeful: we have it on authority that as of today, the iPhone launch is being pushed back from June to... October (!), and Leopard is again seeing a delay, this time being pushed all the way back to January," Engadget said. Panic ensued. Apple's stock immediately plunged 2.2 percent as investors contemplated another product delay at Apple, following the first Leopard delay as well as the Apple TV delay in February.
But around 20 minutes after the original post, Engadget started to update its story. First, the site said it had heard back from Apple PR that there was no delay. Then the full story started to emerge.
Apparently an internal memo was sent to several Apple employees--and forwarded to Engadget--around 9am CT today saying that Apple issued a press release with the news that the iPhone was now scheduled for October, and Leopard was delayed until January. About an hour and a half after that e-mail went out, a second e-mail was sent--this time officially from Apple--saying the first e-mail was a fake, and that the delivery schedule for the iPhone and Leopard had not changed. Engadget then updated its headline as "False alarm: iPhone delayed until October, Leopard delayed again until January.
Commenters on Engadget and Apple investor boards were not amused. Many of those comments are not printable in this space, but it's safe to say that there's some very unhappy Apple shareholders out there today. Apple's stock recovered as the full story emerged, but was still down slightly in afternoon trading.
Engadget said that the e-mail was forwarded by "a trustworthy source," and definitely sent from within Apple's internal e-mail system. "Presumably Apple is now on the hunt for whomever was able to spoof its internal email system," it said in a later version of the post that used a strikethrough font effect on the text of the original report.
UPDATED: An Apple representative confirmed that there has been no change in the company's schedule for both Leopard and the iPhone. "The communication is a fake and did not come from Apple," the representative said.
Engadget posted a story Wednesday morning at 11:49am ET claiming that Apple was about to announce another delay of Leopard, the next version of Mac OS X, as well as a delay for the iPhone, perhaps the most hyped gadget of all time.
"This one doesn't bode well for Mac fans and the iPhone-hopeful: we have it on authority that as of today, the iPhone launch is being pushed back from June to... October (!), and Leopard is again seeing a delay, this time being pushed all the way back to January," Engadget said. Panic ensued. Apple's stock immediately plunged 2.2 percent as investors contemplated another product delay at Apple, following the first Leopard delay as well as the Apple TV delay in February.
But around 20 minutes after the original post, Engadget started to update its story. First, the site said it had heard back from Apple PR that there was no delay. Then the full story started to emerge.
Apparently an internal memo was sent to several Apple employees--and forwarded to Engadget--around 9am CT today saying that Apple issued a press release with the news that the iPhone was now scheduled for October, and Leopard was delayed until January. About an hour and a half after that e-mail went out, a second e-mail was sent--this time officially from Apple--saying the first e-mail was a fake, and that the delivery schedule for the iPhone and Leopard had not changed. Engadget then updated its headline as "False alarm: iPhone delayed until October, Leopard delayed again until January.
Commenters on Engadget and Apple investor boards were not amused. Many of those comments are not printable in this space, but it's safe to say that there's some very unhappy Apple shareholders out there today. Apple's stock recovered as the full story emerged, but was still down slightly in afternoon trading.
Engadget said that the e-mail was forwarded by "a trustworthy source," and definitely sent from within Apple's internal e-mail system. "Presumably Apple is now on the hunt for whomever was able to spoof its internal email system," it said in a later version of the post that used a strikethrough font effect on the text of the original report.
UPDATED: An Apple representative confirmed that there has been no change in the company's schedule for both Leopard and the iPhone. "The communication is a fake and did not come from Apple," the representative said.
Apple's hiring 'iPhone Personal Trainers,' but what's the start date?
Apple wants to hire "iPhone Personal Trainers" to work at a Sacramento call center doing iPhone technical support.
The company has posted two job announcements on its Web site, one for an iPhone Personal Trainer and the other for an iPhone Personal Trainer Team Manager.
The company has posted two job announcements on its Web site, one for an iPhone Personal Trainer and the other for an iPhone Personal Trainer Team Manager.
An Apple job posting says iPhone call center workers are expected to 'drive customer excellence home like a World Series player'(Credit: Casimir Fornalski/CNET News.com)
The manager's job description includes this breathless description: "You'll drive customer excellence home like a World Series player."
The open house is today at Apple's campus in Elk Grove, outside of Sacramento. Apple's Web site lists the Elk Grove address as 2511 Laguna Blvd, Elk Grove.
While Apple Chief Financial Officer Peter Oppenheimer said last month that the iPhone is on track to ship in "late June," the company has not been more explicit.
Guessing when the iPhone will be released has become something of a spectator sport. We reported in March that AT&T was giving a release date of June 11, and one hoax put it at June 15. On Wednesday, Engadget.com reported -- and then quickly retracted -- a claim that the iPhone would be delayed until October.
We figure that anyone who applies for the job will be told when the start date is, and when the call center will begin operation, both of which are linked to the actual date of the iPhone introduction. If you've applied for the job and have any info, let us know.
Nokia says iPhone may boost pricier phones
NEW YORK (Reuters) -
Nokia Oyj (NOK1V.HE) (NYSE:NOK - news) hopes Apple Inc.'s (Nasdaq:AAPL - news) highly anticipated iPhone will boost consumer appetite for pricier mobile phones with features such as music and video, Nokia's Chief Financial Officer said on Monday.
So-called smart phones allow users to surf the Web, take photos, enjoy music and video and sometimes games, in addition to making calls. Many are priced above $400, before subsidies by mobile carriers.
"The (U.S.) consumer ... hasn't had a lot of choice to go out and purchase these kind of higher-end, feature-rich multimedia devices. If that can help that market grow, I think that gives us an opportunity," Nokia CFO Rick Simonson said at the Reuters Global Technology, Media and Telecoms Summit.
The iPhone is Apple's biggest foray yet into the cutthroat $145 billion consumer electronics industry. Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs has set a goal of selling 1 million units in calendar 2008.
"Don't get me wrong, they will bring some things to the table that we have to be responsive to, but we have been investing in this area or some time," Simonson said. "We are leading in multimedia convergence."
Simonson said Nokia, the world's biggest maker of mobile phones, already makes best-selling multimedia handsets -- including the N73 and the N95 -- that will challenge iPhone when Apple's device debuts in the United States in June.
"It (the N95) is already out there, doing many of the things that people are talking about the iPhone doing. The iPhone is interesting. It's very much a validation of what we've been doing, in terms of saying there is a multimedia device out there that people will pay for," he said.
Apple has said it could eventually sell 10 million iPhones, which play music and video and have a touch screen. The version with 4 gigabytes of flash memory will cost $499, while the 8-gigabyte version will cost $599.
"The (U.S.) consumer ... hasn't had a lot of choice to go out and purchase these kind of higher-end, feature-rich multimedia devices. If that can help that market grow, I think that gives us an opportunity," Nokia CFO Rick Simonson said at the Reuters Global Technology, Media and Telecoms Summit.
The iPhone is Apple's biggest foray yet into the cutthroat $145 billion consumer electronics industry. Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs has set a goal of selling 1 million units in calendar 2008.
"Don't get me wrong, they will bring some things to the table that we have to be responsive to, but we have been investing in this area or some time," Simonson said. "We are leading in multimedia convergence."
Simonson said Nokia, the world's biggest maker of mobile phones, already makes best-selling multimedia handsets -- including the N73 and the N95 -- that will challenge iPhone when Apple's device debuts in the United States in June.
"It (the N95) is already out there, doing many of the things that people are talking about the iPhone doing. The iPhone is interesting. It's very much a validation of what we've been doing, in terms of saying there is a multimedia device out there that people will pay for," he said.
Apple has said it could eventually sell 10 million iPhones, which play music and video and have a touch screen. The version with 4 gigabytes of flash memory will cost $499, while the 8-gigabyte version will cost $599.
Bargain Basement Apple iPhone Only US$1000.00
The Apple iPhone isn't for sale anywhere, but some people with more money than sense are bidding for the 8 GB iPhone at up to US$1000.00 on eBay, according to T3.
One seller is even promising a 14 karat Gold iPhone for a mere US$10,000.
Even though the phone may not yet be approved by the F.C.C. and no specific ship date has been announced, some bidders seem willing to pay quite a bit more than retail.
"eBay has stayed silent over the auction, but it does breach rules about prereleases actually requiring a date when they抮e due on shelves before being put on the site," T3 reported.
It's a testament to Apple's grapevine marketing schemes that this mobile phone is so widely anticipated and desired. Even so, it remains to be seen whether Apple can make enough of the phones to avoid a long back order phase or whether the already hefty price will make them readily available at the local Verizon/AT&T stores in July. We won't have to wait long to find out.
One seller is even promising a 14 karat Gold iPhone for a mere US$10,000.
Even though the phone may not yet be approved by the F.C.C. and no specific ship date has been announced, some bidders seem willing to pay quite a bit more than retail.
"eBay has stayed silent over the auction, but it does breach rules about prereleases actually requiring a date when they抮e due on shelves before being put on the site," T3 reported.
It's a testament to Apple's grapevine marketing schemes that this mobile phone is so widely anticipated and desired. Even so, it remains to be seen whether Apple can make enough of the phones to avoid a long back order phase or whether the already hefty price will make them readily available at the local Verizon/AT&T stores in July. We won't have to wait long to find out.
The iPhone: Apple's First Flop
Todd Sullivan submits: Apple (NasdaqGS: AAPL) begins selling its revolutionary iPhone this summer and it will mark the end of the string of hits for the company. Billed as "your life in your pocket," it will sell for $599 with a one year or $499 with a two agreement through AT&T wireless.
The company has had a string of hits since it introduced the iPod and its shareholders have benefited sending shares from $7 in 2003 to the $100 they sit at today. The introduction of the iPhone will be the first miscue for the company and send its shares, priced for perfection tumbling. "Why?" - you ask.
More Isn't Always BetterThe beauty of the iPod was and is its simplicity and singular purpose. It enabled even the most tech phobic of us to operate and enjoy it. Because of this, sales have been phenomenal. There are several versions of Mp3 player phones out there and none of them are big sellers. The reason? The market does not want them together. I do not want to have to turn off my music to get a phone call. If I am driving my family in my car and we are listening to the iPod, having to turn off the music to answer my phone becomes a major hassle. The same holds true for any event where I play the iPod. Why would I pay $600 for this, or, buy an iPod in addition to this, in order to avoid the hassle?
One CarrierAll of have cell phone agreements and have a cancellation fee. This varies from $100 to $150 dollars. This price need to be added to the costs of the iPhone for those who want it right away or it will cause a lag in initial sales. This lag will allow cell competitors to create their own, cheaper versions to compete, hurting future sales.
Touch ScreenBeing able to make a call simply by pointing a finger at a number is a feature touted for the phone. How is this any different or accurate from scrolling on my blackberry? This feature will lead to frustration, as users who do not point at exactly the number they want will keep initializing errant calls.
"All In One" Historical IssuesHow many people have had TV/VCR or DVD combos or the dreaded all in one fax, scanner, copier? Now, how many regret that decision? When you have an all in one, you then become a slave to that device. If either breaks, the both units must be replaced. If a newer, better version or either comes out, you cannot purchase it because it then entails buying both again at considerable cost. Now, when you consider the unimpressive reliability history of the iPod and the cost to attempt to repair them (usually it is cheaper to just buy a new one), it is not an unrealistic stretch to consider that you may be purchasing one of these every two or three years. An expensive proposition.
What Should Apple Do?This is the easiest part. There is no reason to have an 8GB iPod on the phone. Give us a 2GB capacity so we can put our favorite stuff on it and listen when we want, cut the price to $299 and you may have something. A $599 phone will not gain mass acceptance no matter what it does, especially when people can still get its functionality from their existing devices. Also, the exclusive deal with AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T - News) was not a very bright idea. Until it is expanded to all carriers, you will have nothing more than a little niche product.
The real winner in all this? AT&T , not Apple or its shareholders.
The company has had a string of hits since it introduced the iPod and its shareholders have benefited sending shares from $7 in 2003 to the $100 they sit at today. The introduction of the iPhone will be the first miscue for the company and send its shares, priced for perfection tumbling. "Why?" - you ask.
More Isn't Always BetterThe beauty of the iPod was and is its simplicity and singular purpose. It enabled even the most tech phobic of us to operate and enjoy it. Because of this, sales have been phenomenal. There are several versions of Mp3 player phones out there and none of them are big sellers. The reason? The market does not want them together. I do not want to have to turn off my music to get a phone call. If I am driving my family in my car and we are listening to the iPod, having to turn off the music to answer my phone becomes a major hassle. The same holds true for any event where I play the iPod. Why would I pay $600 for this, or, buy an iPod in addition to this, in order to avoid the hassle?
One CarrierAll of have cell phone agreements and have a cancellation fee. This varies from $100 to $150 dollars. This price need to be added to the costs of the iPhone for those who want it right away or it will cause a lag in initial sales. This lag will allow cell competitors to create their own, cheaper versions to compete, hurting future sales.
Touch ScreenBeing able to make a call simply by pointing a finger at a number is a feature touted for the phone. How is this any different or accurate from scrolling on my blackberry? This feature will lead to frustration, as users who do not point at exactly the number they want will keep initializing errant calls.
"All In One" Historical IssuesHow many people have had TV/VCR or DVD combos or the dreaded all in one fax, scanner, copier? Now, how many regret that decision? When you have an all in one, you then become a slave to that device. If either breaks, the both units must be replaced. If a newer, better version or either comes out, you cannot purchase it because it then entails buying both again at considerable cost. Now, when you consider the unimpressive reliability history of the iPod and the cost to attempt to repair them (usually it is cheaper to just buy a new one), it is not an unrealistic stretch to consider that you may be purchasing one of these every two or three years. An expensive proposition.
What Should Apple Do?This is the easiest part. There is no reason to have an 8GB iPod on the phone. Give us a 2GB capacity so we can put our favorite stuff on it and listen when we want, cut the price to $299 and you may have something. A $599 phone will not gain mass acceptance no matter what it does, especially when people can still get its functionality from their existing devices. Also, the exclusive deal with AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T - News) was not a very bright idea. Until it is expanded to all carriers, you will have nothing more than a little niche product.
The real winner in all this? AT&T , not Apple or its shareholders.
Many iPod users will switch network for iPhone
The iPhone looks set to make a big impression when it launches in Europe.
A pair of Europe/UK surveys published today reveal that almost half of Europe's iPod users participating in its 2,000-person pan-European survey by Canalys said that they are likely to consider Apple for their next mobile phone.
“Apple’s rating improves dramatically when you talk to existing iPod owners,” said Pete Cunningham, senior analyst at Canalys. “Almost half the respondents who owned an iPod rated Apple as likely to be considered for their next phone, compared to just 20 per cent for those who didn’t have an iPod, and they were five times as likely to give Apple the highest rating. There is a lot of loyalty that Apple can tap into.”
Canalsys asked respondents to assess how likely they would be to choose different mobile manufacturers. Nokia was clear first-place choice, followed by (in order): Sony Ericsson, Samsung and Motorola. Apple was in the mid-range, behind LG, but marginally ahead of well-known smart mobile device vendors like RIM, HP and Palm.
A second UK survey from Shiny Media says that even at its current price forcast, 25 per cent of people would be willing to switch their network provider to get their hands on an iPhone.
The survey also points out that 46 per cent of respondents would only purchase an iPhone if the price falls below £200. For many, the Nokia N95 is seen as the most threatening iPhone challenger.
Canalsys also found that mobile television and GPS navigation seem set to become major market catalysts. 51 per cent of those surveyed were interested in mobile TV, but demand a wide range of content. GPS navigation was desired by 62 per cent of consumers surveyed.
A pair of Europe/UK surveys published today reveal that almost half of Europe's iPod users participating in its 2,000-person pan-European survey by Canalys said that they are likely to consider Apple for their next mobile phone.
“Apple’s rating improves dramatically when you talk to existing iPod owners,” said Pete Cunningham, senior analyst at Canalys. “Almost half the respondents who owned an iPod rated Apple as likely to be considered for their next phone, compared to just 20 per cent for those who didn’t have an iPod, and they were five times as likely to give Apple the highest rating. There is a lot of loyalty that Apple can tap into.”
Canalsys asked respondents to assess how likely they would be to choose different mobile manufacturers. Nokia was clear first-place choice, followed by (in order): Sony Ericsson, Samsung and Motorola. Apple was in the mid-range, behind LG, but marginally ahead of well-known smart mobile device vendors like RIM, HP and Palm.
A second UK survey from Shiny Media says that even at its current price forcast, 25 per cent of people would be willing to switch their network provider to get their hands on an iPhone.
The survey also points out that 46 per cent of respondents would only purchase an iPhone if the price falls below £200. For many, the Nokia N95 is seen as the most threatening iPhone challenger.
Canalsys also found that mobile television and GPS navigation seem set to become major market catalysts. 51 per cent of those surveyed were interested in mobile TV, but demand a wide range of content. GPS navigation was desired by 62 per cent of consumers surveyed.
iPhone demand in the UK is 'soft', survey finds
Even die-hard fans may not convertThe UK's largest iPhone survey undertaken by iPhone blog iphonic.tv has found that while interest in Apple's upcoming mobile is very high, even Apple die-hards won't invest in the handset unless it is competitively priced and available on their network.…
iPhone demand in the UK is 'soft', survey finds
The UK's largest iPhone survey undertaken by iPhone blog iphonic.tv has found that while interest in Apple's upcoming mobile is very high, even Apple die-hards won't invest in the handset unless it is competitively priced and available on their network.
While 72 per cent of the 487 respondents (74 per cent of which already own Apple hardware) are considering buying an iPhone, only 7.6 per cent said they would definitely purchase one. The clear sticking point appears to be price with only 14 per cent of respondents saying they would pay more than £250 to own an iPhone.
Potential iPhone buyers were also reluctant to switch networks to own a model with only 26 per cent saying they would leave their current provider. Just 12 per cent said they would break contract to get an iPhone.
"I think the research underlines that Apple is now entering what is a much more complex market than computers or music players," says iphonic.tv editor Andy Merrett.
"Apple's exclusivity on the hardware and software front (though criticised) is, I believe, a good idea. Its exclusivity with retail and network partners is a bad idea. Not only does it alienate people on other networks that don't want to switch - even for an iPhone - but it keeps the price high and choice low."
The research also found that the design and touch screen are considered to be the phone's best features, while price and battery life rate as its biggest weaknesses.
Finally, only 28 per cent of respondents said they were likely to buy another iPod after the iPhone launched in the UK. A more detailed account of the survey is here.
While 72 per cent of the 487 respondents (74 per cent of which already own Apple hardware) are considering buying an iPhone, only 7.6 per cent said they would definitely purchase one. The clear sticking point appears to be price with only 14 per cent of respondents saying they would pay more than £250 to own an iPhone.
Potential iPhone buyers were also reluctant to switch networks to own a model with only 26 per cent saying they would leave their current provider. Just 12 per cent said they would break contract to get an iPhone.
"I think the research underlines that Apple is now entering what is a much more complex market than computers or music players," says iphonic.tv editor Andy Merrett.
"Apple's exclusivity on the hardware and software front (though criticised) is, I believe, a good idea. Its exclusivity with retail and network partners is a bad idea. Not only does it alienate people on other networks that don't want to switch - even for an iPhone - but it keeps the price high and choice low."
The research also found that the design and touch screen are considered to be the phone's best features, while price and battery life rate as its biggest weaknesses.
Finally, only 28 per cent of respondents said they were likely to buy another iPod after the iPhone launched in the UK. A more detailed account of the survey is here.
Can Motorola's RAZR2 Edge Out Apple's iPhone?
Aniq Rahman submits: Apple's (NasdaqGS: AAPL) iPhone is certainly the biggest buzz phone, but it's also going to be a big phone. Motorola (NYSE: MOT - News) might keep its thunder for many consumers due to lucrative signing deals with many carriers and its slim, sleek design. According to the stats that Motorola is hounding, the new RAZR2 will be 10x better than it's predecessor (the original RAZR of two years ago, selling over 98 million handsets worldwide), including a processor that is 10x faster, 2 GB of on-board memory and a chemically hardened exterior that is scratch resistant. The camera is only 2 MP though (but they say it can take up to 2 hours of video), but the 2.2" QVGA internal display should be fantastic. New RAZR 2 will also have three models: "the V9 [3G HSDPA], V9m [EVDO CDMA] and V8 [GSM] - will be available to users of all three major technology networks" [Motorola Launch]. Motorola has also paired up with Apple's media rival, Microsoft's (NasdaqGS: MSFT) Windows Media Player, for playback (although the OS on the phone is a proprietary Motorola Linux OS -- no RIM OS or Windows Mobile, but it should get the job done).
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More cool features include:
Preset texts and a fresh external display to view incoming messages on. It's always nice to have a flip phone you don't have to flip.
The RAZR2 has an MP3 player that can hold an estimated 1,000 songs (using its 2GB internal memory).
A fresh new look, but they didn't bother re-inventing the wheel.
[Images from LinuxDevices.com]
Even with all of the flashy displays, Motorola is still saying that the RAZR2 is going to be able to deliver 500 minutes of talk time (that's over 8 hours!) and up to 280 hours of standby [MOTORAZR V8].
So what's the talk on Wall Street? Well, not too much yet and probably not much until the phone actually comes out:
Shares of Motorola shed 24 cents, or 1.3 percent, to $17.92 at 4 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. The stock has lost 13 percent this year, while Espoo, Finland-based Nokia has gained 25 percent, and Suwon, South Korea's Samsung has declined 6.5 percent.
"It's not going to pop out as being something radically different the way the original Razr did," said Brad Williams, a technology analyst at MTB Investment Advisors in Baltimore, which manages $11 billion, including Motorola shares. [Bloomberg]
Since Motorola has a lot of potential reach with this phone and several carriers it can cater to, it could probably defeat a lot of the iPhone market for existing subscribers looking to upgrade. AT&T/Cingular might end up being the big winner here if Motorola signs a contract with them as well. The RAZR2 will be cheaper than the iPhone (with analysts projecting a cost of about $300/pop versus the iPhone's $499-599 pricetag). It will also cater to the crowd that doesn't want to clip their phone to their belt or carry a bul!kier phone.
Overall, Motorola's product lineup looks pretty solid for the next couple of months. We're excited to hear more about the upcoming MOTO Z8, which is being reported to have a potential 12 hours of movies or 70 hours of music. (Check out more about the RAZR2 and the MOTORIZR Z8 from EngadgetMobile's coverage.)
As to who will be king in this line of phones, we can't say just yet. However, we do know that the mobiles will be doing a lot of talking this summer.
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More cool features include:
Preset texts and a fresh external display to view incoming messages on. It's always nice to have a flip phone you don't have to flip.
The RAZR2 has an MP3 player that can hold an estimated 1,000 songs (using its 2GB internal memory).
A fresh new look, but they didn't bother re-inventing the wheel.
[Images from LinuxDevices.com]
Even with all of the flashy displays, Motorola is still saying that the RAZR2 is going to be able to deliver 500 minutes of talk time (that's over 8 hours!) and up to 280 hours of standby [MOTORAZR V8].
So what's the talk on Wall Street? Well, not too much yet and probably not much until the phone actually comes out:
Shares of Motorola shed 24 cents, or 1.3 percent, to $17.92 at 4 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. The stock has lost 13 percent this year, while Espoo, Finland-based Nokia has gained 25 percent, and Suwon, South Korea's Samsung has declined 6.5 percent.
"It's not going to pop out as being something radically different the way the original Razr did," said Brad Williams, a technology analyst at MTB Investment Advisors in Baltimore, which manages $11 billion, including Motorola shares. [Bloomberg]
Since Motorola has a lot of potential reach with this phone and several carriers it can cater to, it could probably defeat a lot of the iPhone market for existing subscribers looking to upgrade. AT&T/Cingular might end up being the big winner here if Motorola signs a contract with them as well. The RAZR2 will be cheaper than the iPhone (with analysts projecting a cost of about $300/pop versus the iPhone's $499-599 pricetag). It will also cater to the crowd that doesn't want to clip their phone to their belt or carry a bul!kier phone.
Overall, Motorola's product lineup looks pretty solid for the next couple of months. We're excited to hear more about the upcoming MOTO Z8, which is being reported to have a potential 12 hours of movies or 70 hours of music. (Check out more about the RAZR2 and the MOTORIZR Z8 from EngadgetMobile's coverage.)
As to who will be king in this line of phones, we can't say just yet. However, we do know that the mobiles will be doing a lot of talking this summer.
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