This is highly expected. And currently there are lots of rumors surface. MacRumors reports that there are many evidence showing Apple are going to produce 3G iPhone. Other news report said Apple need to make a 3G version in order to launch Asia’s version in 2008 as promised. Additional news report added that Japanese brand Aiphone permits Apple to use iPhone in Japan. cellular-news reports that Taiwanese Hon Hai Precision Industry will produce the 3G iPhone. Kevin Rose also talked about 3G iPhone during his popular show Diggnation.
Source said Apple Asia’s representative told the media that iPhone will definitely come to Asia within 2008. We additionally called Jill Tan, Asia’s spokeswoman, and she declined to comment. We further asked whether iPhone will be launched in Asia or not. She replied “Yes, it will be launched as promised by Steve (Apple’s CEO)”. Then, we go further by asking whether it is 3G version or not, then she declined to comment.
Since Steve promised iPhone will be available in Asia by 2008. In Asia, many places have been switched to 3G for years. In Japan, there is no 2G network. Steve only have 2 choices when he want to launch iPhone in Japan: 1. Force local cellular operator to invest in 2G network again; 2. Add 3G compatibility to iPhone. While the first point is highly impossible, iPhone should have 3G by 2008.
Additional source said 3G iPhone will be launched in Hong Kong (located in China) in August. All the local cellular operator declined to comment. There are only 2 operator including PEOPLES(owned by China Mobile, who said currently there is no deal and no more talks with Apple) and HKCSL which provides EDGE connection.
There was a drama happened for 3G iPhone. There is a fake picture saying iPhone by local operator SmarTone-Vodafone is coming in Hong Kong during April. That was posted in Hong Kong forums and spread quickly. SmarTone-Vodafone is a 3G operator and later declined there is no co-operation with Apple. Would that mean something?
If you are not rush to buy the iPhone, it is worth to wait for better 3G version.
We will keep an eye on Apple Asia to find out more news about 3G iPhone.
