Having been rumoured for some months, O2 UK looks set to lose iPhone exclusivity 
despite statements that it has a multi-year agreement with Apple. According to those close to the situation, documents have been leaked which state explicitly that the arrangement will end on October 9th, with Orange and T-Mobile the apparent favourites to start marketing the 3G version of the iPhone. O2 will retain exclusive rights to sell the new 3G S for an undisclosed period.
Seemingly, Vodafone remains off the iPhone list, although only a few months ago the company worked hard on reshaping its portal to be iPhone compatible--but at the time refused to acknowledge that there was any subterfuge behind this move.
To complicate the matter, T-Mobile UK has been importing as many iPhones as it can purchase in Europe and offering them to discontented subscribers on the verge of churning. However, the company has made a muddle of its iPhone tariffs with the result that its offer compares poorly with O2's--and T-Mobile's package doesn't include the latest 3G S iPhone. Orange is also said to be offering high-spending subscribers the iPhone as part of its customer retention programme.
What is apparent from this iPhone distribution model is the growing likelihood of consumer confusion and disillusionment.
For more on this story:
T3, Mobile News and ITProPortal
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