[tc7]

Why would Apple create a stripped down 'iPhone lite', as the article suggests? Sounds very un-Appley, and seems to take away the major plus of choosing an iphone (apps).

If it comes to the Verizon network, I'll definitely get one, as long as they don't let Verizon cripple it and screw it up. (I have a lot of faith in Verizon.) It seems that Apple would be in the position of power in negotiations, so I can't see them letting Verizon have their way on anything that makes the iPhone less cool.

[ericb]

I think it is most likely a negotiating tactic pr-release vs. at&t. By announcing how they "could" get around the limitations of the current deal and presenting Verizon as a serious suitor, Apple should be able to increase the dollar amount on the renewal of the exclusivity deal when that happens.