“China Mobile Ltd. said it plans to introduce a new brand for mobile services on Dec. 18, raising expectations of an imminent start to its iPhone sales in the country,” Lorraine Luk reports for The Wall Street Journal.
“The launch is expected during the company’s 4G global partners conference in Guangzhou, according to China Mobile’s website,” Luk reports. “In September, China’s Telecom Equipment Certification Center gave Apple Inc. the final license necessary for the iPhone to run on China Mobile’s network.”
“China Mobile executives have said iPhone subscriptions likely would come only after the company introduces its 4G platform. Chinese media, including Nanfang Daily, recently reported that China may issue 4G licenses next week,” Luk reports. “‘A deal with China Mobile would give Apple a big boost in the China market as the largest local carrier has the most wealthy subscriber base. I estimate that among China Mobile’s more than 700 million mobile subscribers, at least 10% or 70 million wealthier ones would be potential customers for iPhones,’ Hong Kong-based Mizuho Securities analyst Marvin Lo said.”
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MacDailyNews Take: Could be a nice stock price catalyst.
For reference, Verizon Wireless, the U.S.A.’s largest carrier, has a total of 119.45 million subscribers.