The tide may be turning for Apple, as operators begin to evaluate if terms and conditions of carrying the iPhone and other products are really worth it.
In the past fortnight, two carriers have hit the headlines for rejecting the US vendor’s apparently strict business model. Telefonica’s Czech Republic unit branded Apple’s terms unreasonable, while US Cellular chief Mary Dillon said the conditions were “unacceptable from a risk and profitability standpoint.”
While two operators ditching its devices won’t hurt Apple, it highlights that operators are beginning to see a world beyond the firm. That view is likely helped by the success of Android devices from multiple vendors, while Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 is also providing an alternative.
Of course, we don’t know what terms the vendors of Android and WP devices are offering, but the savvy manufacturer might eye an opportunity to pressure Apple with better operator deals.