It has been officially confirmed that Sprint would be able to offer 4G LTE iPhone 5, that is, if Apple releases one during the expected Fall timeframe. Sprint’s ability to operate Apple’s 4G LTE iPad 3 came into question when the Cupertino company only released a 4G LTE iPad on Verizon and AT&T. Currently, Sprint does not have a widespread 4G LTE network and is working to release the new technology in six cities by mid-year. The network may be limited to major areas such as Chicago and New York City, which are prime testing locations for major carriers.
In a report released Tuesday by NASDAQ, it was confirmed by Sprint Chief Financial Officer Joe Euteneuer that Sprint is indeed planning a 4G LTE network, although he did not specify whether Apple would be releasing a 4G LTE iPhone on the network, if at all this year. Currently, AT&T and Verizon have rolled out their 4G LTE networks to major parts of the United States, with reports also confirming that Verizon will be making 4G LTE phones on their network a “hard requirement”.
According to the NASDAQ report, Sprint is currently in a contract with Apple for $15.5 billion worth of iPhones, which won’t make the carrier any profit until 2015. Initially, this is what worried many who wondered if Sprint would be getting not only the new iPad, but a possible 4G LTE iPhone down the road. With Sprint’s CFO confirming that 4G LTE is on the horizon, it is now clear that Sprint is able to and will pursue LTE technology, compete with both AT&T and Verizon, and offer an LTE iPhone down the road.
{via NASDAQ – Image Credit: LA Times}
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