Droid Is a Serious Challenger to iPhone
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6. It's a numbers game
It's doubtful that Droid will be able to
supplant the iPhone as the most coveted phone in the mobile market, but it is
possible that Android itself will enjoy far greater success by relying so
heavily on Verizon Wireless. Since Android is an open platform, it can be found
on several devices, making it a viable alternative to the iPhone. Combined
sales of Android devices could eventually match the iPhone's single-phone
sales. It's a real possibility.
7. Features matter
Apple has tied its future to the virtual keyboard. That's not necessarily a
bad thing, but it might be an issue as users search for a new phone. We have
all been conditioned to use physical keyboards. They tend to be easier to use.
And in many cases, it's what we look for in a device. Considering Droid does have a physical keyboard, it's a selling point. And it
could cause some who would rather be on Verizon Wireless' network to take
notice.
8. Verizon doesn't need the iPhone
Unlike AT&T, Verizon
Wireless has proven that it really doesn't need the iPhone. Would it be
nice to have it? Sure. But the carrier also realizes that with Android doing a
fine job of delivering a rich touch experience, it's no longer a requirement.
That gives Apple less leverage in negotiations.
9. Alternative options? Not really
As Apple considers other carriers, it's entirely possible that the company
won't be able to bring its iPhone to Verizon Wireless customers. Realizing
that, it has two options: T-Mobile or Sprint. In either case, there isn't much
to choose from. Those carriers trail AT&T and Verizon Wireless by a wide
margin. And when we consider their coverage, it's not even close. I simply
don't see Apple having any other option besides bringing the iPhone to Verizon
Wireless. But if Verizon isn't open to such a release, Apple might be stuck
with AT&T.
10. The future is in doubt
At this point, the future looks bright for the iPhone. But that doesn't
mean that it will maintain its dominance. If Verizon Wireless dedicates its
bundles of cash to Android phones, it's entirely possible that Google's
platform could start making inroads in the mobile space. And in the end, it
could put Apple on the run.
Remember, anything can happen.
