In anticipation of the iPhone 5 this September, would-be Verizon Wireless customers are holding on to their cash until they have a fifth-generation device to spend their money on, says one industry analyst.
Jason Armstrong of Goldman Sachs says “iPhone sales will be a touch below the 2.2 million” Verizon managed during the first quarter, and expectations of a fifth-generation iPhone landing in just a few months time are thought to be to blame for Verizon’s dip in sales…
With the iPhone 5 rumored to launch this September, it seems customers are postponing their commitment to a new two year contract until the device finally hits the shelves, for fear of purchasing a device out-dated within months. Verizon sales of other smartphones continue to grow “above the carrier’s expectations,” according to Armstrong, indicating those uninterested in the iPhone 5 aren’t concerned by its upcoming release.
Verizon has now been home to the iPhone since February 3, and its launch on the CDMA network is thought to be one of the reasons why the iPhone’s share has continued to grow in the U.S. Android devices continue to claim the top spot, however, with 38% of the U.S. smartphone market. The iPhone currently holds 27%.
Has the rumored release of the iPhone this September persuaded you to postpone your new iPhone purchase?