In a comment to Seeking Alpha’s article, “NPD Claims Android’s Army Passes iPhone OS“, “SiliconValleyJoe” wrote the following thoughts (note: BOGOF – Buy One Get One Free):
I am really not sure Apple and Verizon will ever work together.
Verizon wants control over everything. It wants to relegate hardware manufacturers to “dumb” hardware maker status. The HTC Incredible is a wonderful phone but it is now in Verizon’s “Premium” BOGOF program. Verizon does not care about the hardware, it cares only about getting subscribers and it will actively act to cheapen the hardware in order to gain the subscription.
Apple relies on its hardware. Apple’s business strategy is about shipping a premium brand product with differentiating added-value. This is the only way it can maintain its pricing structure and profit margins. The Apple brand is significantly more valuable than Verizon. Apple will never allow Verizon to damage the brand.
They have conflicting needs and opposite requirements. I do not see Verizon and Apple ever working together on any premium products from Apple.
Of course, what do I know?
For all I know, Apple may already have struck a deal to have iPhone 3G and 3GS in Verizon’s BOGOF program while the iPhone 4G will remain exclusive. We shall see.