Recently I wrote about whether this is the right time to buy an iPhone 3G from Maxis. My opinion is this is not the right time keeping in mind the rumors of a new iPhone on the way. But things just seem to get even more interesting with the prospect of a cheaper iPhone model which does not need to be tied to any cellular carriers. This would mean that there might be models which could actually be bought off the shelf very much like other mobile phones.

Read this report from Reuters:

Apple Inc could offer lower-cost versions of the iPhone, and without the obligatory monthly data service plan, in hopes of significantly boosting sales, according to one influential technology analyst.

Speaking at the Reuters Global Technology Summit in New York on Monday, on Monday Sanford C. Bernstein analyst Toni Sacconaghi said he expects Apple in coming weeks to unveil new iPhones that will appeal to more cost-conscious consumers.

This is exactly what consumers have been asking for. Just give us the phone and we’ll decide what we want to do with it. Why should the phone be tied to a particular carrier? This would mean that you could buy a “legal” iPhone, pop in your prepaid sim card and start using it right away. You want to surf the net? Go look for a WiFi hotspot. After all, its so much more easier to find WiFi in most major cities in Malaysia anyway. As usual, Apple did not comment on this speculation – they did not deny it as well!

Related posts:

1. Will the iPhone 3G reach the shores of Malaysia (legally that is) ?
2. Yes, your iPhone 3G can work with Maxis – simple software unlock!