If there’s a good network out there, Apple might just like the iPhone to be on it.
Per 9to5Mac, sources close to the story had said that a version of the iPhone for Sprint’s network is currently in advanced testing. The physical design of this device is akin to the iPhone 4 of today, so this might be the iPhone 4S device with support for all carriers that we have been dreaming up and hearing whispers about. Apple is said to have ordered Sprint-compatible cell towers for use on their campus – for testing – in late 2010. Apple similarly tested the Verizon iPhone against Verizon cell towers on their campus months before the product’s release.
In addition to being actively tested in Apple’s “black labs,” the device is making the rounds amongst Sprint’s research and development department. Sources also say that talk of a 4G varient of the iPhone for Sprint is moving along, but the first generation Sprint iPhone that is currently in testing does not feature support for 4G bands. Back in May, a job listing posted to Apple’s official jobs website revealed that Apple is looking to craft up a cellular engineering team in Kansas City, home of Sprint’s worldwide headquarters. Sources did warn that depending on negotiations regarding 4G, the project may be pushed to late 2012. If the Sprint model is this fall’s model, it likely will not carry 4G compatible radios.
Additional reports have stated that a Sprint iPhone is coming and that it will include dual-band support for T-Mobile. The report also claims that Verizon/AT&T and Sprint/T-Mobile will switch off annually as to who gets the new iPhone model. Rumors on the ground have also stated that the Sprint data plan will be spiked to US$89 a month from US$69 a month.
Keep checking back and we’ll have more information as it becomes available.
One reply on “Rumor: Apple testing iPhone handset with Sprint network”
Maybe I’m being stupid, but what difference will this make to the iPhone outside of America i.e. most of the world. All the UK has seen for over a year is the iPhone 4 on all Uk networks, then a White one a bit later. I really don’t care about sprint or version or different colours, it would not make sense globally for apple to just release a sprint iPhone 4 in September. The iPhone 4 is looking outdated and sluggish compared with new Android phones, Apple needs to release a phone with better hardware and they need to do it this year.