Comcast is apparently teaming up with Apple as it makes preparations to soon debut its mobile service. There is talk that the upcoming wireless offering will be launched under the Xfinity Mobile brand name. It turns out that Comcast’s name has been added to non-visible code that lists the carrier bundles for the iPhone. This list of carrier bundles is utilized by iPhones and even iTunes in checking if an Apple smartphone’s SIM card is supported by a service provider with whom the iPhone maker has an existing contract. Also found in the newest list of carrier bundles is “Verizon_Comcast_LTE_US” and even includes “Xfinity Mobile.” It appears that the updated code has a connection with the roll out of a particular update for Apple’s iOS mobile operating system. It seems that Comcast is also busy conducting trials for its mobile service using its employees, and is even setting up a customer care line for its tests.
It is no secret that Comcast has ambitions to enter into the wireless business. If its preparations go well, it might be well on its way to launching its first ever mobile service in the next few months. Some may remember that earlier this year, the company had once again mentioned that it is planning to roll out its mobile service before this year is finished, and had even promised that deployment of its bundled deals will commence by the middle of 2017.
Considering that Apple’s iPhone is one of the most popular smartphone products anywhere, it goes without saying that the device would be an ideal target for Comcast. Specifically, the cable company is trying to put itself in a good position to leverage its network consisting of some 16 million Wi-Fi hotspots, and also take full advantage of its 5 year old MVNO contract with Verizon Wireless in order to establish a new means for generating income. As such, the always in-demand iPhone would be a good device to have especially for somebody like Comcast who is trying to make a strong entrance in the American wireless market.
Some analysts are already predicting that Comcast’s bid to become a major player in the wireless industry will have an impact in the world of mobile, even if it is only in MVNO capacity. If Comcast does manage to achieve a successful launch, the next step for the company is to build on that move and further expand its wireless service.
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https://www.wirefly.com/blog/news/comcast-joins-forces-apple-it-preps-mobile-service-launch