Carriers force Apple to ditch programmable SIM plans

Apple has given up on its plans to unveil a programmable iPhone SIM card, thanks to protests from the carriers. No surprise there: The move would’ve let Apple sell directly to customers and basically bypass any need to deal with the service providers.

According to The Street, “Apple had hoped to move from its exclusive partnerships with carriers in every country to a non-exclusive approach…” The Financial Times reports that the cellular providers threatened to withhold phone subsidies, so Apple suspended the idea.

In the U.S., a move like this could’ve allowed people to choose between GSM networks Tmo and AT&T. The stakes were even higher over in Europe, where GSM/SIM cards are prevalent. Users would’ve had multiple choices for service providers there.

You can look at this two ways: As an indication that Apple wants its devices to be unburdened from carrier control, or as just another power move on Cupertino’s part to yank control from the mitts of other parties. Either way, if there was anyone left who doubted that AT&T’s iPhone reign would be ending, this should be some pretty compelling evidence.

Via: The Street, Financial Times