14 DAY TRIAL // Wireless carrier AT&T is reportedly working on enhancing the coverage of its 3G network before Apple releases a new version of its highly-popular iPhone device. According to some of the latest reports around the web, Apple might bring an iPhone that will work on Verizon's network to the market, and AT&T is working on eliminating various issues with its network so as to lure customers on its side.
Many AT&T subscribers have been complaining about various connectivity problems on their carrier's network, and the company is reportedly set to enhance the coverage it offers in major cities around the United States, so as to make sure that no more issues emerge. However, a recent article on The WSJ suggests that the wireless operator might not be able to offer the quality standards customers require even after these upgrades.
According to Edward Snyder, managing director of Charter Equity Research, a financial research firm that studies the cellular phone industry, cited by The WSJ, there are great chances that many AT&T customers will migrate to Verizon as soon as the iPhone arrives at this carrier. Not to mention that a J.D. Power & Associates poll last month showed that AT&T was still behind Verizon when it came to call quality.
According to AT&T, it will invest about $2 billion on enhancements brought to its network during the ongoing year, and it expects to add twice the capacity added in 2009. The carrier also notes that it is handling more traffic on its network than any other carrier in the country and that it will continue improving its services in big markets, after already making a series of enhancements in these areas.
A series of reports on a Verizon-bound iPhone recently emerged around the Internet, suggesting that the device might enter mass production in September. According to Snyder, the handset might not start shipping in 2010, as AT&T's exclusivity will last until the end of the year, but Verizon is getting ready for launch. According to analysts, even if AT&T is expected to lose some users when the exclusivity is over, Apple will certainly have a lot to gain, as the iPhone will be available to more people in the country.