From the main "suspect" of carrying the iPhone on its European release, Vodafone has turned into a second option for Apple. Officials at this network have assured people that the "wonder phone" will come to their network too, despite the fact that it will not happen in the near future, but later on.

First information regarding the iPhone's European launch showed Vodafone as the main operator to carry the device. At that time, rumors showed this company to be the main one that Apple has chosen for a wider launch and not only in the UK. The handset has just been announced for its release in UK, Germany, while Orange has confirmed that it will carry the device in France. Still, no words on Vodafone.

Chief Executive Officer at Vodafone, Arun Sarin, said that their company will "absolutely" support the handset's release on other markets in the next months, as there are many other countries where the phone is to come. The statement has been recently made on the occasion of a visit in Mumbai. Moreover, the company plans to negotiate with Apple within the next six to 12 months.

The reason which made Vodafone reluctant when it came to supporting the iPhone's release in Europe was that of the phone's lack of 3G. Still, Apple's CEO, Steve Jobs, has assured everybody that an iPhone equipped with this performance will surely arrive next year. This should solve Vodafone's problem and make it a favorite in the race of carrying this handset.

Vodafone's shares rose almost 50 percent over the past year. With all the rumors stating that this company would be involved in the European release for the iPhone, there is no wonder that it gained so much ground. The company is now negotiating the terms of their support for bringing the iPhone in even more countries during next year.