Reports on Monday have claimed Apple is investigating the possibility of launching its own mobile network for iPhone users
Business Insider sources bring word the company is testing a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) service that would allow it piggyback on existing networks at home and abroad.
Testing is underway in the US, where the report claims the company has partnered with Sprint and AT&T, while Apple is also looking for partners in Europe.
Like the recently-launched Google Project Fi network, Apple’s plans would also allow customers to hop between mobile carriers in order to pick up the best service.
Read more: What is Project Fi? Is Google about to change the mobile industry forever
The Apple SIM initiative, which makes it easier for iPad owners to switch mobile networks at the drop of a hat, will play into the plans.
The report says: “Here’s how an Apple MVNO will work: Instead of paying your carrier every month, you will pay Apple directly for data, calls, and texts.
According to the report Apple plans to launch iCloud Voicemail before it allows customers to jump on board with an MVNO. This would free voicemail from carriers in much the same way Apple has been able to do with text messages through the iMessage platform.
However, despite reports tests are underway, any network launch could be at least five years away, according to Business Insider.
Rumours Apple is considering such a venture aren’t new (it first applied for a related patent in 2006), but it appears the firm is now making concrete steps in that direction.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
