10/19/2009
InfoSync World
It seems like Verizon Wireless might have a version of the iPhone for testing on its upcoming 4G network. Is the iPhone LTE on its way to the carrier for relase next year?
Given the iPhone’s huge sales success, both Verizon Wireless and Qualcomm have been eager to work with Apple on future models for a while. According to FoneFrenzy, sources now say that a version of the iPhone that could be powered by a multi-mode chipset is currently being tested on Verizon Wireless’ upcoming LTE network.
Back in February 2008, Qualcomm announced a series of multi-mode chipsets that would let Verizon Wireless offer devices that would work on both EV-DO and LTE networks. However, in February 2009 Qualcomm specifically announced a smartphone chipset that should be ready to sample in mid-2010, the MSM8960.
FoneFrenzy seems to place its bet on an official announcement being made at Apple’s WWDC in mid-2010, but since the technology on this level is first and foremost in Qualcomm’s hands, this could be too soon. When looking at the iPhone history, it might not be a good idea to release the iPhone LTE before a chipset is most definitely ready for prime-time.
Regardless, the timeframe here obviously leaves room for plenty of leaks until then, and both Verizon Wireless and Qualcomm clearly want to get in on the iPhone market. Given Apple’s strategy of late we doubt they’re having any significant objections to seeing the iPhone on Verizon Wireless either.
