Even though it has been widely speculated without confirmation, more reports have surfaced that indicate Apple is developing a new CDMA iPhone that will run on Verizon Wireless.
A Wall Street Journal report states Apple is working on new versions of the iPhone, along with a Verizon compatible model that could be released in time for the 2010 holiday season.
AT&T uses GSM while Verizon currently uses a CDMA network, which is the most significant hurdle Apple must overcome, by manufacturing an entirely new device with different hardware.
"The model that has CDMA capability, used by Verizon Wireless, is being manufactured by Pegatron Technology Corp., the contract manufacturing subsidiary of Taiwan's ASUSTEK Computer Inc.," according to the WSJ.
It's unknown when the Verizon iPhone will become available, but it should be mass produced sometime in September. Features and pricing are expected to be competitive with the AT&T model of the newest iPhone, but nothing has been confirmed.
In spring of 2009, a WSJ report said Verizon was working with Apple and Microsoft, which shows just how far back rumors of a Verizon iPhone have been around.
I know Apple and AT&T have been locked into an exclusive agreement on the iPhone thus far, but it would be significant potential customer base increase for Apple to make an iPhone available on Verizon, which is the largest mobile phone service provider in the United States.
AT&T still receives criticism for spotty coverage, but has steadily worked to improve 3G support -- especially in San Francisco, New York and other major metropolitan areas.
I still think it's only a matter of time before the iPhone finds its way to Verizon, unless AT&T is able to convince Apple to stay exclusive with the company.
