Verizon Finally Lands the iPhone

Apple abandoned its GSM-only device strategy to unveil a CDMA version of the iPhone 4 for VZW customers. But Apple also eschewed the latest version of its network technology, long-term evolution (LTE), to make a 3G only device. While every major U.S. operator is deploying new mobile broadband services under the banner of 4G, for now Apple is keeping its iconic smartphone locked in a 3G time capsule.

Apple chief operating officer Tim Cook addressed \[the 3G/4G\] issue at Verizon’s press conference today in New York. According to Cook, first-generation LTE chips would have necessitated design changes to the iPhone 4 that Apple couldn’t make. While Apple could have waited for second generation silicon, Cook said, VZW customers wanted the iPhone sooner rather than later. Apple isn’t waiting. It’s taking pre-orders for the new CDMA iPhone on Feb. 3 and will start selling the device across all of it and VZW’s channels on Feb. 10.