Microsoft Says No, But Verizon Device Rumors Persist

Verizon Wireless recently said it’s happy with its smartphone lineup, but the rumor mills insist that Apple and Microsoft are planning devices for the wireless carrier. Verizon has confirmed talks with Apple and Microsoft has not disputed talks with Verizon, but any devices remain speculation.Earlier this week, news reports speculated that Apple might be developing two devices for Verizon. BusinessWeek cited sources “familiar with the negotiations” suggesting an iPhone lite with a lower price tag than the iPhone 3G AT&T sells, as well as a tablet-like media pad that might look like an iPod touch.

Next, a story emerged that Microsoft was preparing to launch a so-called iPhone-killer, the ZunePhone, through Verizon. The Windows Mobile device could be built by Sidekick, maker of the popular Danger phone. Microsoft acquired that company last year. Microsoft is not disputing talks with Verizon, with which it has a major mobile advertising deal, but said it’s not readying a ZunePhone.

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Add comment April 30th, 2009