A recently published article by The Star explains why clearly Malaysia telcos know of the Apple iPhone’s popularity but isn’t willing to sacrifice profits for a mere cool Apple iPhone.
Some of the parts in the article explains this:
Apple plans to distribute the device in Malaysia similar to how it was done in the US, via an agreement to appoint AT&T as the exclusive service provider of the device…
…Many have been asking why Maxis has taken so long to bring the phone to our shores. Some pointed out that a new model generally takes about six months to get here and some phone models are even launched in Malaysia before other markets…
…Industry players said Apple was also known to take a big cut from the service provider’s sales for the iPhone; therefore, local service providers were reluctant to bring the phone into Malaysia.
And to add, Star has tried contacting Apple to comment on the matter but no news so far. So for everyone still waiting – remember to shave. Otherwise, as some already my reseller is selling the Apple iPhone 3G in Malaysia.
AT&T subsidizes iPhone. Similar, Japan’s iPhone distributor – I think it’s Softbank – also does the same thing. However, Softbank adds an icon in the iPhone interface to direct users to Yahoo! Japan, which it owns.
So if Maxis wants to sell iPhone, it must find some other ways to make money.
Not only making money but making more of them…which maxis will eventually
Yup, and they don’t have to price it overly expensive just to make it. If looking long term, I’m sure Maxis can cover back within 1-2 years especially if they bundled with one of their 3G plans.