Just a Bit Carrier
GigaOM reports that Apple is trying to reduce the points of contact between iPhone users and the carriers to a minimum in Europe. I have to imagine that they would like to do so here as well - that would let them end the exclusive with AT&T, albeit only by adding in lesser carriers like t-mobile:
Sources inside European carriers have reported that Apple has been working with SIM-card manufacturer Gemalto to create a special SIM card that would allow consumers in Europe to buy a phone via the web or at the Apple Store and get the phones working using Apple’s App Store.
This is why I am still skeptical about a big Apple/Verizon deal. I just don't see Verizon cheerfully fading into the background that way...