Certainly a question that is going around in Malaysia is – when will the iPhone 3G be officially launched in Malaysia? Why is it that the iPhone 3G has been launched in our neighboring country but not a bigger country with a bigger subscriber base like ours? This has been a mystery right from the days that the iPhone 2G was introduced. If Apple can sell the unlocked iPhone in Hong Kong without a contract, why can’t they do it in Malaysia? Let’s look at some possible explanations.

Scenario 1: Apple sells the iPhone 3G with a contract for 2 years

This is pretty much the same deal as in the US or Singapore. The phone is subsidized by the telco but you will need to sign a contract that you will sell your soul to them – just kidding! Typically the subsidy results in a 2 years’ contract with the telco. Recent rumors have suggested that Apple might be tying up with Maxis on this. But it also has been suggested that Apple’s terms for profit sharing is not favorable to Maxis and this has been delaying the launch of the iPhone. It could be a logical explanation. But could it also be that a third party (a.k.a Celcom) could also be vying for the opportunity? After all, the iPhone 3G could really be a trump card in the hands of the telco who knows how to play it well.

Scenario 2: Apple decides to sell the iPhone unlocked and without a contract (like in Hong Kong)

This would be the best scenario if you ask me. I don’t need to tie myself up with any telco and put up with mediocre service. But this is unlikely to happen. You ask why? Well just because our friends would be crossing the causeway to buy unlocked iPhones rather than from Singtel. So that’s out of the equation as well.

As of now it looks like the iPhone 3G is definitely not going to make its appearance in Malaysia. Let’s hope I’m wrong and we’re able to lay our hands on this coveted prize from Apple.

Update: Yes, finally the iPhone 3G is available in Malaysia from Maxis!

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