Apple finalises iPhone deal with European networks

Apple has signed contracts with 3 European phone networks to exclusively sell the new iPhone, expected in late 2007 in Europe. The iPhone, which was made available in June in the United States, is expected to be released in the UK, France and Germany only, and will be released in Asia in 2008.

The three lucky networks are T-Mobile of Germany, Orange of France and O2 of the UK. They are bound by contract to give 10% of all profits and data transfer back to Apple in exchange for their exclusive right to sell the phone. Despite this obvious financial loss, the phone companies have claimed that it is worth it for the boost of image that is expected from being the only sellers of the phone, and the swarm of customers with high rates of spending on calls which will be attracted to the phone.

So, it’s good news if you are a European already anticipating the release of the iPhone. But to our US readers, was the iPhone worth the high price it is being sold for?

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