14 DAY TRIAL // An executive from a Korean wireless services provider has revealed that Apple and the carrier are in talks to equip the iPhone 5S with LTE-A technology, a more advanced cellular standard.
An SK Telecom executive, who requested not to be named, reportedly tells the Korea Times that, “SK Telecom is approaching Apple to put our LTE-A technology on the upcoming iPhone 5S. We are in the middle of negotiations.”
He boasted that, “There’s no reason for Apple not to use the LTE-A technology,” suggesting that the Cupertino giant has every incentive to put the proper radios inside its upcoming iPhone.
By mentioning the iPhone 5S, the executive seems to have confirmed the name of Apple’s next iPhone revision.
The Cupertino company is said to be unleashing a family of iPhones this year, including cheaper models equipped with plastic enclosures.
Another anonymous source at the telecom company reportedly said, “Thanks to the Qualcomm technology, Apple can release i-devices globally without the time gap.”
“This is a win-win strategy. With the help of Apple, SK Telecom can take a lead in the race for LTE-A devices and Apple can seek breakthroughs in its stalling phone business,” this person said.
The Korean newspaper citing the two executives reports that the country has seen huge demand in devices supporting high-speed networks.
As such, industry sources tell the paper that, “Apple intends to use Korea as the litmus test to gauge the marketability of LTE-A technology before making inroads into China.”
Apple is expected to unveil its iPhone 5S in fall, alongside the final version of iOS 7. The device is rumored to be equipped with a fingerprint sensor under its Home button. Other rumors say it will be released in multiple colors.