Vodafone wants 3G on iPhone

According to an article on Reuters, Vodafone are concerned that the Apple iPhone does not operate on 3G networks. Vodafone’s CEO Arun Sarin said

It’s clearly a good, software-driven device, but we’re concerned about wideband area coverage so that 3G (third-generation) or HSDPA (upgraded 3G) connectivity with the iPhone is something that we look forward to.

Vodafone would obviously love to add the iPhone to the range of mobile devices on their network but do not seem to be prepared to bend over backwards (unlike AT&T) to strike a deal with Apple. Dare I say, the customer comes first in this instance - unfortunately probably more of a power play by Vodafone.

Also quotes like that from Vodafone’s CEO just fuel the rumours that the second generation iPhone is imminent, whether the new version has 3G or not is still unsure. Some sources report that the next version of the iPhone will be some sort of iPhone Nano, smaller in price and presumably functionality. However Apple must be keen to release their pride and joy into the European market, so hopefully a deal is brokered sooner rather than later.

Source: Reuters