Orange to offer iPhone in the UK
In what can only be regarded as great news for consumers, O2's exclusive iPhone will be coming to an end towards the latter end of 2009. Orange will offer the iPhone, apparently all models, not as originally speculated, will be available. So it seems as if Vodafone loses again and Orange will now have to contend will greatly increased data usage amongst iPhone users, as according to reports they are the heaviest users of data among mobile phone users.
While getting new subscribers into the Orange network can only be good, there is an increased cost in acquiring them, most notably the increased handset subsidy that is likely to be necessary to achieve a price advantage over O2. Orange will be looking to offset these costs with increased revenue per user. O2 should expect some of their existing iPhone customers jump ship, however those who bought the 3GS in June will be locked in to O2 until at least the end of 2010, perhaps even into 2011. Good news for those who aren't locked into contracts - cheaper iPhones and cheaper tariffs should be in place soon - good ol' competition.
UPDATE: Vodafone is also offering the iPhone 3G and 3GS, coming in early January 2010 - even better news for the consumer.
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