The iPhone has been a very popular smartphone for US mobile operator AT&T, and this summer they activated a record number of iPhones, with 5.2 million total iPhones activated this summer.
This compares to the spring period where they activated 3.2 million iPhones, an increase of 62.5 percent, obviously the new iPhone 4 had something to do with the increased numbers.
The Impact of the iPhone 4 on Sales
The introduction of the iPhone 4 brought several new features and improvements that likely contributed to the surge in activations. The iPhone 4 was the first model to feature the high-resolution Retina display, which offered a much sharper and more vibrant viewing experience compared to its predecessors. Additionally, the iPhone 4 introduced a new design with a glass front and back and a stainless steel frame, which was a significant departure from the plastic casing of earlier models.
Another major selling point was the improved camera system. The iPhone 4 came with a 5-megapixel rear camera capable of recording 720p HD video, and it also introduced the front-facing camera, which enabled FaceTime video calls. These enhancements made the iPhone 4 a highly desirable upgrade for existing iPhone users and an attractive option for new customers.
Future Prospects and Competition
AT&T’s exclusivity for the iPhone is due to end soon, it will be interesting to see if they are able to keep up these numbers, and if Apple does launch a Verizon iPhone we suspect it may have a large impact on their overall iPhone sales. The end of AT&T’s exclusivity could lead to increased competition among carriers, potentially driving down prices and offering more choices for consumers. This could be beneficial for Apple as it may lead to even higher overall iPhone sales, but it could also pose challenges for AT&T as they would no longer be the sole provider of the iPhone.
Moreover, the potential launch of a Verizon iPhone could attract a significant number of customers who were previously hesitant to switch to AT&T due to network coverage concerns. Verizon’s extensive network coverage and reputation for reliability could make the iPhone even more appealing to a broader audience.
In addition to carrier competition, the smartphone market itself is becoming increasingly competitive. Other manufacturers like Samsung, Google, and HTC are continuously releasing new models with advanced features, aiming to capture a share of the market. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy series has been a strong competitor, offering high-end specifications and innovative features that rival the iPhone.
Make sure you read our article on the difference between the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S.
via TUAW
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