Apple Tel

Nothing frustrates me more than going back to Larry Ellison’s Internet Toaster discussion. When I was working on my carrier’s business Internet strategy, I would listen to people from Oracle asking me to redesign my network so they could go over the top. It was a very good one-sided view. 

We have come a long way from those days thanks to the implementation of the wireless Internet. However, we still have the same problem. Regulations on the network operator require the management of the systems to provide more than just putting a device into someone’s hands.

While it is true that the Internet has done some amazing technology changes for us, the reality is that outside plants still requires truck rolls and people.

So when someone says that Apple is going to buy a carrier, I have to question if they were in the same business as I was. 

Now to their credit, these Apple Tel advocates are looking at the financials and making the market cap analysis that does normal M&A. However, if you looked at the balance sheet you would discover that the subsidies to the consumer which is killing the carriers will go away.

Additionally, this would add to the regulatory nightmare that Apple would have to navigate. And finally and most importantly, their sights are set on China and not on the U.S. so why buy a carrier that only serves a smaller percentage of the market?

Still not convinced? Neither are some friends. So join us for the discussion on August 16.

Actually, this is going to be the start of a series of Regulatory 2.0 calls asking the question what would happen if a device company merged with a telco? If you have an angle you would like to explore on this front. Please let me know. Right now this session is strictly on the market cap analysis and the financial hurdles to make such a merger happen.

I don’t know if Apple will be listening, but I know that it should.

Want to learn more about today’s powerful mobile Internet ecosystem? Then be sure to attend the Mobility Tech Conference & Expo, collocated with ITEXPO West 2012 taking place Oct. 2-5 2012, in Austin, TX. Co-sponsored by TMC Partner Crossfire Media the Mobility Tech Conference & Expo provides unmatched networking opportunities and a robust conference program representing the mobile ecosystem. The conference not only brings together the best and brightest in the wireless industry, it actually spans the communications and technology industry. For more information on registering for the Mobility Tech Conference & Expo click here.

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