Category Archives: News
China Telecom Announces ‘Dragon Plan’ To Bring iPhone 5 To Its Network On 5th October
It’s not exactly news that Apple is keen to capitalize on the extensive Chinese mobile market when it launches its upcoming iPhone 5 device.
In the latest bulletin of Apple’s quest to dominate China, the country’s third-largest carrier, China Telecom, has put the wheels in motion for a quarter-billion dollar “Dragon Plan” promotion and ad campaign in anticipation for an October release.
Currently, the Cupertino-based company’s only Chinese carrier partner is China Unicom, and as we reported a while back, former CEO Steve Jobs has already held several meetings with China’s largest carrier – China Mobile - with a view of bringing the iPhone 5 to it’s 600+ million subscribers as Apple looks to really cash in. China Telecom also boasts a whopping 108 million subscribers, making it the world’s largest CDMA carrier. There is no word exactly on what the “Dragon Plan” actually entails, but for the amount being spent, it’s almost certain to make waves. The report however also sets in lines with previous rumors of the iPhone 5 entering pre-order stage in September:
China Telecom (0728.HK) has instructed some of its provincial branches to begin preparations for the sales of the iPhone 5, including conducting staff training, and the operator will accept orders for the phone at the earliest at end September, reports Southern Metropolis Daily, citing a company insider.
According to the report, a LED screen at the Changan Road branch of China Telecom had started advertising the forthcoming debut of the iPhone 5.
Orange CEO suggests iPhone 5 to launch in France on Oct. 15
Here’s another iPhone 5 rumor to brighten your day. According to HardMac, Stéphane Richard, CEO of wireless carrier France Telecom-Orange, confirmed during an interview that the iPhone 5 will launch in France on October 15th.
Richard said Orange has received information from Apple about the handset launch, but did not provide any details on the handset itself. Though very much a rumor, this date coincides with earlier rumors suggesting a mid-October launch for Apple’s next iPhone model.
Orange CEO suggests iPhone 5 to launch in France on Oct. 15 originally appeared on TUAW – The Unofficial Apple Weblog on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Starbucks and Apple launch Pick of the Week
Starbucks and Apple are expanding their “Pick of the Week” program to include books, music, apps and videos.
For several years, Starbucks and Apple have offered a “Song Pick of the Week” program. The program offered a free select iTunes music track that was downloadable by any Starbucks customer.
Kensington SecureBack case keeps iPads safe
Kensington extended its range of computer security products by introducing a new SecureBack case for the iPad 2. The case cradles the iPad 2 and provides it with a ClickSafe Security Anchor that’s used on Kenisngton’s other protective products.
The product targets companies that are handing out iPads to their employees and want to prevent the loss of sensitive data. The cases are also designed to provide access to all the ports, speakers and buttons. It does appear to add some bulk to the slim profile of the iPad, but its a necessary tradeoff for increased security. Pricing for the entry level SecureBack case starts at US$49.99.
Apple prepares to open 5th store in China
According to M.I.C. Gadget, Apple is close to opening yet another flagship store in China. The retail store is located in one of Shanghai’s most popular shopping districts and supposedly has five stories of retail space. The store was expected to open in August but construction problems delayed the launch.
Though a date has not yet been set, the store is nearing its grand opening. The red curtain covering the store has been opened to reveal a large Apple logo and the promise that Apple will “…light up Nanjing road.” Workers have also been spotted wheeling in crates that presumably contain merchandise, decorations and other items for the store.
