Steve Jobs: We Sold 1 Million iPhone 3G S In 3 Days

Today, Apple's Steve Jobs announced in a press release that Apple has sold over 1 million iPhone 3G S in just three days (including the pre-orders - I'm sure that helps a lot in terms of accessibility). And one more thing, Jobs added, "I'm back".

Okay, he didn't but Apple's press release said that as it mentioned him as the CEO.

You always have to read between the line when it comes to Apple. For mobile warriors who likes to keep scores, Apple also mentioned over six million iPhone 3.0 downloads. The interest thing is that Apple made no mention of regular iPhone 3G sales during this past weekend. Very interesting indeed.

Having said that, Apple sales usually get bumps like this and level off. iPhone sales, with their expensive contracts, has yet to reach the levels achieved by the iPods. I really want to know how Storm 2, the plethora of new WM devices, T-Mobile's second Android phone, and Pre will do in the coming months.

Here is Apple's full release:

Apple Sells Over One Million iPhone 3GS Models iPhone 3.0 Software Downloads Reach Six Million

CUPERTINO, California—June 22, 2009—Apple® today announced that it has sold over one million iPhone™ 3GS models through Sunday, June 21, the third day after its launch. In addition, six million customers have downloaded the new iPhone 3.0 software in the first five days since its release.

“Customers are voting and the iPhone is winning,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “With over 50,000 applications available from Apple’s revolutionary App Store, iPhone momentum is stronger than ever.”

The new iPhone 3GS is the fastest, most powerful iPhone yet, packed with incredible new features including improved speed and performance—up to twice as fast as iPhone 3G—with longer battery life, a high-quality 3 megapixel autofocus camera, easy to use video recording and hands free voice control. iPhone 3GS includes the new iPhone OS 3.0, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system with over 100 new features such as Cut, Copy and Paste, MMS*, Spotlight™ Search, landscape keyboard and more. iPhone 3GS customers get access to more than 50,000 applications from Apple’s revolutionary App Store, the largest application store in the world where customers have already downloaded over one billion apps. iPhone 3GS offers twice the capacity for the same price with a 16GB model for just $199 and a new 32GB model for just $299.** And iPhone 3G is available at the breakthrough price of just $99 for the 8GB model—a huge milestone for the high end smartphone market

Test Drive the Pre A Bit - Lives Up To Hype

I got to spend some time with the Pre at my local Best Buy.  Over all, I am impressed with the Pre.  The design is very unique and takes a little getting used to.  The pictures on the Internet does not do it just, for better or worse.


I have an issue with the app support at launch and that's going to be critical.  And with the iPhone 3.0 and iPhone 3G's lower price at $99, G2 and Storm 2 on deck, the Pre will be competing in a very crowded market.


I've provided more notes at Onxo Gadgets and some recommendations on what you should do if you're in the market for a smartphone.  Overall, Palm knocked it out of the park but it was going up against last year's smartphones like the Storm and G1.  And even last year's iPhone 3G is very impressive, possibly for years to come.  


More Pre impressions at Onxo Gadgets

Pre - $199 (After Rebate) On June 6th

According to Yahoo (Via Reuters), Palm and Sprint will try to upset the mobile device world with the Pre for $199 on June 6th. However, expect to pay $299 at the store because you won't get the $199 price until you mail in the rebate and get the rebate check back. How does this compare to the other smartphones and mobile devices?

I can't tell you that because Palm has yet to release a whole host of information regarding its usage such as the battery life.

However, this is a very important announcement as Palm attempts to revive its fortunes, not to mention those of Sprint's.

For a while, I had expected a boring two to six weeks until the iPhone is released but this has certainly made things interesting. At the end of the day, this is not really about the iPhone. It is about whether Palm can deliver as hyped. Already, Palm is trading more than 5% lower as investors find the information not to their likely. Matching iPhone's entry-level pricing is a no-brainer. I suspect that the Pre's challenge in the comping months will be competition with Blackberries priced from free to $199. Oh, there's another "storm" on the horizon as RIM readies Storm 2.

For Palm to finally get Pre out the door is the easy part. Convincing fans like myself who have left it for other platforms will be the difficult part. So Palm, I'm not very happy with my G1. Get me to switch.

Via Yahoo News

Note: Again, we mobile warriors win at the end of the day. And expect Palm's competitors to welcome the Pre with a party of new hardwares, competing rates, and misdirections. And possibly a $99 iPhone.

Another Note: The rebate thing is stupid, Sprint. Stop that nonsense.

Verizon Selling Netbooks This Year

Others have done it. In Britain. ATT with Radio Shack. Now Verizon.

Dave the Mobile Warrior King has informed us that Verizon will begin selling netbooks that will be subsidized with monthly data subscriptions.

Last year, we predicted that 2009 will be inundated with all sort of mobile deals between wireless providers and netbook makers. In fact, Orange is in negotiation with Apple in providing Macbooks with wireless plans. Things are moving along.

So far, no one knows how popular these deals are but I think this will be very popular with folks who are true mobile warriors and need these tools for their livelihood. However, this is not for everyone.

While I applaud these moves, keep in mind I'm on the side of the mobile folks, such as you, myself, and Dave. Let me tell you this right off the top. At rate of $60/month, this is a deal killer. Look, I promote such a combo but I'm not about to recommend it to regular mobile users who don't absolutely need wireless connections.

A two year contact with taxes will take you what I believe to be $1700. In this economy? Kudos to the wireless providers for finally getting into the market but they'll need to do something about the monthly rates before they see armies of mobile users get in on this.

To put this in perspective, ATT and Verizon subsidizes the iPhone and Storm about $400. They charge users a monthly fee of about $80. $35 Of that is the data plan for two years. The wireless netbook deals are almost twice the rate of these mobile plans. Doesn't make sense. (My numbers are very rough estimates.)

And another thing. Here's another estimate. Netbook prices have come down quite a bit. I'm estimating it to be $250-300 each. Not even close to the $600-700 unsubsidized iPhones. The wireless guys can do much better on the plan.

I'm still excited about the move by the market but for now, I'll pass. We'll be keeping an eye on this for ya!

Via Consumer Reports

Blackberry Storm - Where Are The Sales Figures?

I could have posted this on On Apple or On Android but I figure folks in those camps are just as galvanized and passionate about their mobile devices so I'm posting it.

Where are RIM's figures for Storm?  Why isn't Verizon saying how sales numbers are saving Christmas for its stockholders? 

I'm not insinuating anything here but the BB crowd can sure use good news right about now.  Initial sales for the Storm numbered between 100K-120K on the weekend it launched.  That's a very good number and it could pick up steam as the Holidays and Christmas rush is factored in. 

Still it would be reassuring to hear RIM or Verizon come out and do a bit more cheerleading.  I've seen the ads on television, Hulu, and other online avenues but if you do a quick google search, there isn't a lot of information from either companies.  RIM has repeatedly indicated they've added record subscriptions since the Storm debut but it isn't the same as saying 500,000 or 1,000,000 units have sold since.

Regardless, RIM remains the standard bearer in the smartphone segment of the mobile industry.  And it's making the right moves by hiring over a thousand new engineers during this economic downturn.  While others may be looking to shed the workers, Apple and RIM are doing the opposite.  RIM's hirings gives me confidence that they're looking at the long-run and not just a couple of quarters down the line.

I think this alone should be Crackberries a lot to cheer about.

Source:  Fierce Wireless, Unwired View

Note:  Still, a couple of numbers could be reassuring.  And also, I wonder if Storm is helping RIM expand their reach with consumers or is it merely cannilalzing sales of other Blackberries like the Curve or the Bold.

Is Apple Afraid of RIM's Storm?

That's the questions asked at On Apple.

CNet is saying that Apple released the iPhone 2.2 update on the exact same date that the Storm goes on sale is proof that Cupertino is afraid of RIM and its new Blackberry.

I think Apple, as well as anyone else, should always be concerned about the competition.  Scared?

You be the judge.  Please read at On Apple.  Love to hear what you think about it.

Blackberry Storm - Reviews Are Out

I'll put together a few links that will tie as much of the reviews I can find on the Internet together.
Two things to keep in mind with online reviews.

1. Favorites - some reviews will play favorites.  I'm not accusing anyone of blatant bias.  For example, people on iPhone sites will be used to its quirks when it should be an issue but doesn't mention it in its reviews.
2. Some reviewers are not users.  They send a few days at most with a device and sits down in front of their Macbooks and set to provide their best opinions - I've owned the G1 for a month now and I've avoided providing an in depth review until I've had the time to vet it properly.

So far from what I've read, things aren't good when Blackberry-centric sites are cautioning the same things I've mentioned above.  Usually, fan-sites jump right into the fray if reviews are glowing.  After looking through some of the more objective ones, the conclusion seems to be one of the best Blackberries ever on the market but more work is needed via updates and Storm 2. 

Now just the same, if you are interested in the Storm or any other mobile devices, my best advice is to go down to the local stores and spend some time with it.

Mobile Update for October 31, 2008 (Halloween!)

Note:  For this week's daily updates, please visit Mobile Digerati.

There is just one thing to think about as we head into November.  The Holidays shopping season.  Is it "Holidays" or just "Holiday"?  I can't seem to get it quite right. 

Yes, November.  As far as mobile devices goes, it maybe belong to RIM with Bold and Storm finally being let loose.  Today, Blackberry Cool posted information on Blackberry Storm's Vodafone pricing.  Depending on what plan you choose, you might be able to get it free.  Provided you're willing to go with a higher monthly rate (or as they call it over there, "tariff"). 

Now, Engadget is speculating Verizon might try to fire back at ATT with a $99 entry point.  Onxo can see it happening.  However, lots have to happen including making Bold and other Blackberries for free.  Something along that line has to happen.  Sprint also just priced their new Curve at $250.  Bold isn't out yet and ATT has already pre-announced the price to be at $299 (Scientific America).

During the latest financial call, RIM has indicated that they will be taking hits in the coming quarters because of the cost of introducing new products.  You can get it involves Storm.  Just how much will be up to RIM and it's partners and if VW will be willing to take the ATT route, short-term hurts for potential longer term gains.

If Apple chooses to match this, a recent spat of blog posts that came from one analyst source indicates Apple has the ability to take the iPhone down to $99 if it chooses too and still make a hefty margin.  We can't say one way or another what will happen.  Too many moving parts here. 

One thing is certain:  VW and RIM has to matching iPhone's $199. 

Impact: You and I will.  Mobile warriors win.  In this sense, competition is good.  We'll know in the next month just how good we'll get it.

There are no other mobile updates to highlight.  For today's other stories, please visit Mobile Digerati.

Trend Shows Bright Future for Mobile Devices

The original title for this post was "iPhone: The Poor In the US Are Rich" because it was going to be only about a post about lower-income mobile warriors adopting iPhone at a much faster clip than the average folks.  But I realized it's more than that.

According to the Wall Street Journal, folks who earn less than the medium income are leading the way in adopting the iPhone.

Frankly, I'm not surprise.  Not just the iPhone, but I would like to know the  income data for smartphones and other mobile devices.  In these tough economic times, we seek to maximize the value of our income.  Recently, a survey of Canadian and American consumers ranked wireless services as one of the last things they are willing to let go.


With wireless services now nearly as important as utilities, it's no wonder people are looking for a device and service that let them do it all, even if is a small premium.


Here are some data to chew on:

• Mobile warriors earning $25K-$50K who adopted the iPhone grew 16% versus the average of the group at 12%.
• The same group also increased mobile Internet usage by 5% versus 2.7% for the masses.
• Survey was for the summer months and involved close to 34,000 phone users.  This is a much better sampling than Presidential polls are taken.

So, why would I want to see data for other phones?  Well, we are on the cusp of a fundamental change: people ditch their standard phones for devices that can do it all.  Basically, we are transformed from a society used phones to stay in touch to one that wants to be mobile and requires our mobile devices to function beyond making calls.

It is for this reason that I am confident that if we get a chance to examine purchasing data for devices similar to the iPhone, we will find a similar trend.  

• People want a mobile computing devices that makes calls.  Not phones that tries to do other mobile functions.
  
• Simplicity.  No hacking required or any other form of tinkering.  It just works out of the box.
• High speed.  I don't think the iPhone, despite being only $199, will be as success if not for the fast wireless connection.
• If it works as advertised, a small premium is tolerated.

What we're seeing in mobile convergence of functionalities, simplicity, and design.  Onxo has talked about this in the past and we're happy to see it happening.  The iPhone and some of the other devices like the G1 and Storm are a good first step.  

Now, we want more.

Links:

• Macsimum News
• MacNN
• Onxo - Digital Convergence
• Onxo's Mobile Congergence
• Onxo examines Techcrunch's hope of $200 tablet.
• Onxo asks when will US mobile devices see Japanese features.

Mobile Update for October 29, 2008

Today, many G1 owners got a rude awakening when T-Mobile suddenly ended our 3G/EDGE services causing widespread panic.

Apparently, we have been part a week long promotion but I think they call it that but since Google's involved, we were a part of their beta program yet again.  Anyway, this "beta program" ended badly.  Instead of switching everyone over to the data plan we selected when we pre-ordered, it just dropped us without so much as a notice.

Again, to get your service back, you'll need to call T-Mobile.  I just logged into my account and reselected the data plan I want.  Thirty minutes later (though it may take up to 48 hours for some folks), I was back up and running again.

The curious thing was that my Gtalk and Gmail was still working during that time.

Now, the other mobile news we're tracking.  We have been updating you on the white spaces saga.  It continues with new information.  The FCC has decided to go ahead with their plans for a November 4th vote.

Dolly Parton or not, looks like geeks (Gates and Google's Schmidt) won this round at least.

More links and the rest of today's mobile news at our new Mobile Digerati.

Mobile Update for October 27, 2008

Two big wireless news today.  Last week, we saw ATT and Apple rocked with new customer acquisitions and iPhone sales.  This week, Verizon stepped up to the place and knocked on out of the part.  Imagine what would happen now if Apple and Verizon were partners.

I'm doing that just now...anyway, VW saw an increase in data and wireless but monthly rates rose a mere 1%.  Still, all in all, a great quarter for the "can you hear me now" guy and company.

The second news we will start following is Cox's plan to rollout wireless services next year.  Right, the Cable company.  This would open up a new front in the war with the telecoms.  It's actually quite brilliant if it works in bringing a new game into a familiar playground.

So, what will we see?

• Mobile devices to watch TV shows and video from digital recorders.
  
• "Triple play" to be "quadruple play" or something with voice and wireless data.
• Working on 4G.  Mentioned work with Sprint in the past so it might be WiMax.  Because it also owns a chunk of the wireless spectrum, it is free to choose its own platform including LTE.  

For other mobile updates, please go to Onxo Daily.

Mobile Week Review (October 20-24, 2008)

The week was a big weird.  We not no major changes in the wireless landscape but we also had some important insights into things to come.

First, Android.  thousands of T-Mobile users were given their first introduction to the G1.  I received mine on Monday and I have periodically provided my own user update for it.  Over at On Android, I made cursory comparisons to the iPhone but recently, I have been told I should make the comparison more with Windows Mobile.  I might consider doing that but for now, I want to talk about the G1 there.  I've posted pictures as well.

IMPACT:  Unknown at this time,  It's unclear how Android will do beyond T-Mobile and what Google has pressed upon us.  More and more, I think the G1 is a beta.  If you know Google's history with beta products, you know what I'm talking about it.  Unfortunately, for fortunately, Google did not fess up to the G1 being a work-in-progress.

The second big deal of the week is Apple's iPhone numbers.  Nearly seven million?  Is that a lot?  When looking at the subcategory of smartphones which the iPhone is wrongly lumped into, it is a big deal.  It's a bigger deal since the number of mobile providers and handset makers are forced into frantic modes to try release products without the "me, too" feel to it.

The iPhone will do well in its own sphere, an expanding one no less.  However, if we want to see how numbers are going to be like when we compare each devices, we will need more products on the market (Storm has been announced but not released) and see how they do over a few quarters.  I found myself agreeing with Microsoft's Bach on this matter.

Unfortunately for Microsoft, whether it's the Zune phone or Windows Mobile 6 or 7 with Zune functions, their words are empty until they've got something to release.  By 2010, as is rumored when Windows Mobile 7 will be released, the Android should be out of beta, the iPhone could well be on version 3 or 4,  Nokia with a multiple number of N-series touchscreen phones, and there may be many types of Storms on the market.

Lastly, white spaces.  The FCC is due to vote on this but with politics brought in (NYT- MUST READ as it provides a good background on white spaces and who the cast members are and their roles), we may see a delay on this matter.  We'll follow this closely and let you know what is going on once the pressures of an election year is over.

Here is Google's most recent statement on this matter.  Time to choose sides, my fellow mobile warriors.

Mobile Update for October 23, 2008

Nothing major took place in the mobile world as we know it.  No new product announcement.  We're still digesting G1's impact and reviewing it.  I'm providing daily use experience and impressions at On Android.  Today, I'm focusing on battery life and Amazon's MP3 store app.

Now, here's a topic to think about.  RCR Wireless has a post on what "open access" means.  It's very well written and must read to catch up something that impacts all mobile warriors.  Essentially, everyone - wireless providers, handset makers, developers, and you (me too) have our own definition of what it means.

It's what the government will eventually rule on.  I don't know about you but if the definition of "open" as the wireless providers has redefined it is applied to "open access", we're in a lot of trouble.

Mobile Device Upate:

• New DSi images and videos from Destructoid.
• Onxo's Take on Apple's Netbooks; UMPC offers their take on Apple's netbooks.
• Appleinsider has dirt on next generation of chips.  Focus is on Macbooks but last I hear, Intel still sells to other folks too.
  
• CNet reports Intel introduces new cooling tech for laptops.  Lots of tech talk but hey, if it works, bring it!
• MSI Wind will reach 700,000 this year.  I think I'm the 500,000th customer.
• Crunchgear says Android and iPhone stores the same...in terms of the types of apps people download.  Then there is not a lot of stuff to download to begin with.  I'm still waiting.
  
• As reported by ATT, Bold will be available for $300 on November 4th.
  
• Gizmodo talks about a special Firefox that uses multi-touch gestures on the Macbooks.  More here.  Must read.
• Mobile Royale on Opera running on PSP.
• Liliputing lists 31 netbooks for $399 or less.  If you use live.com search, you can get a lot them for less via 30% off on eBay.  Just thought you might want to know.
  
• Onxo looks into October mobile surprises.

Mobile Issues:

• Yahoo News reports eight Congressmen wants to lose reelection by asking FCC to delay white spaces vote.  Lobbyists cheer business as usual still working in Washington.
• Wi-Fi Planet updates on Philly's Wi-Fi plans.
• Onxo on what consumers are cutting first before they get to their mobile bills
• CNet blog wants Sony to wake up.  I agree with most of it.
• Mobile Ent reports India now has 500 million mobile users.  That's more the population of North America combined (450 million)
  
• Wireless Week on e-mail addictions.
• Onxo on MS Exec on iPhone figures.
• World of Apple on ATT's 2.4M new iPhone users.
• Onxo thinks Sprint needs Android.
• Onxo goes through mobile categories and see if we might have a happy Christmas.

MS Exec on iPhone Sale Numbers

According to Robbie Bach, Microsoft's exec responsible Windows Mobile among other things, asks folks not to look too much into those iPhone numbers.  And we all know Jobs like numbers.  The signifiance of those numbers is that Apple has only been on the market for 18 months or so and has done pretty well for a new guy.

But I agree with Bach a point he made.  Each company will have their big launch.  And when it's done, things settle down, that is when numbers can be compared fairly.

With that said, Apple will need to sustain this and growth it even more.  Everyone agrees Apple hit a home run with the iPhone 3G and now, folks will be expect more of the same next time Apple steps up to the plate.

This is not to say that there is no pressure being put on RIM, Google, or Microsoft.  G1's success has not been met with the kind of enthusiasm the iPhone has generated.  In fact, Macworld saw no evidence the average Joe is even aware of it.  People who went and bought the G1 normally had a tech background.

Bach said RIM will have it's big moment soon with Bold and, more specifically, Storm.

Eventually Microsoft will have its turn with WM 7 in 2010.  And as Bach said, normalization is key.  How each competitor in the mobile market is able to sustain sales figures and how quickly they can innovate and get out new technologies.

So, we'll give RIM and Microsoft a fair shake when they're due up.  And we'll see where everyone's numbers are a few quarters from now.  This is what we mobile warriors live for.  People fight to get to us.

Source:  Electronista

Note:  If we are going to compare the iPhone to the G1, we have to do the whole song and dance, including launch promo and eventually sales figures.  I'm an owner of both mobile devices so I'm trying to be fair about it all.  This goes the same for Storm, Bold, and whatever Zune-Phone Microsoft is working on.

Mobile Update For October 22, 2008

I discussed a bit in an early post on the shift the iPhone caused in the mobile industry that is having an impact on mobile warriors.  Specifically, profit margins for mobile carriers have shrank as they subsidize smartphones to compete with ATT.

The likely impact of this is lower entry prices for mobile users looking to upgrade to a high end mobile device.  And specifically, Steve Jobs is looking to squeeze handset makers even more, probably with additional storage capability and price adjustments.

Apple wants to leave no "umbrella" room for its competitors.  With $25 billion in the bank, looks like they mean to do that.  Who wins?  You.  Me.  Dave the Mobile Warrior.

Obviously, the biggest news today is G1 officially goes on sale.  As you probably know by now, I've go mine a couple of days ago and I love Android.  G1, not so much.  Battery life sucks but hey, it's 3G.  Not complaining.  Just making a statement.  For more, head on over to On Android for my daily updates on my owner-experience.

Mobile Device Upate:

• As reported by ATT, Bold will be available for $300 on November 4th.
  
• Gizmodo talks about a special Firefox that uses multi-touch gestures on the Macbooks.  More here.  Must read.
• Mobile Royale on Opera running on PSP.
• Crunchgear on a hybrid handheld that runs XP and Windows Mobile.  $500?  My puny G1...oh, wait, it runs Android.  Feel better now.
• Phandroid offers biased comparisons between iPhone, Storm, and G1.
• Phone Report wants us to reacquaint ourselves with Xperia.  Wish the G1 looks like that.
• Gizmodo reports Blackberry app store...coming soon...oh jeez...March of 2009?!  Look at the terms.  See RIM's strategy?  No good for mobile warriors who arm themselves with Blackberries.  Yahoo News has more info along with Blackberry firmware update.
• Liliputing lists 31 netbooks for $399 or less.  If you use live.com search, you can get a lot them for less via 30% off on eBay.  Just thought you might want to know.
  
• Onxo looks into October mobile surprises.

Mobile Issues:

• World of Apple on ATT's 2.4M new iPhone users.
• Yahoo News on Nokia's to open Symbian.  Hoping that it'll work.
• Onxo thinks Sprint needs Android.
• Onxo wants wireless providers to have their own Christmas Carol moment.
• Onxo goes through mobile categories and see if we might have a happy Christmas.
• The Apple Blog thinks Apple is about the provide subsidized Macbooks.
  
• Onxo on AWS-3 saga continues.

iPhone's Effect on Mobility - Revenue

There are now mounting evidence of iPhone's influence and effects on the mobile landscape.  There is no denying how Apple's 2nd generation iPhone has really made

First, let's look at the carriers.  Today, ATT announced an earnings of $3.23 billion last quarter.  Depends on how you look at it, they had a great quarter with 2.4 million new iPhone subsidized, but it also meant they would take a short-term hit on earnings.

And this goes to a much larger issue of how wireless carriers do business going forward.  In order for other carriers to compete with ATT, they would also have to provide larger subsidies than they traditionally would offer.  According to JP Morgan analyst, Michael McCormack, he was distressed by the drop in margin for ATT and has thus lowered the forecasted margins for Verizon and Sprint as well.  He points to the price of Sprint's Instinct as an example of how carriers are forced to defend their business and top handsets to lure customers.

Right now, no one knows how much Blackberry's Storm is going to cost Verizon to put on the market.  ATT's Blackberry Bold will be available on November 4th for $300.  It's like Verizon will need to match that price at the very least but lower it even further to $200 to compete with the iPhone.

To make matters worse for ATT's competitors, Apple seemed very confident about the iPhone's competitive situation.  If customers are not buying handsets that are not competing on price with the iPhone alone, ATT's competitors could be missing out on another source of revenue, 3G wireless plans that smartphones require to take advantage of all the features they offer.

We'll know the extent of Apple's impact in the mobile market on earnings when Verizon and Sprint report their earnings and, later, how Storm will be priced next month.  And just so we're clear, the Blackberry Storm may not cheap to subsidize.

Link:

• Yahoo Tech News

Note:  We'll get into iPhone's impact on gaming and advertising next.

Mobile Update for October 21, 2008

I don't want to dwell on earnings in Onxo but I have to say something about Apple's numbers today especial pertaining to its mobile numbers.

• 6.9 million iPhones served.  Compared to RIM who sold 5.4 million.  Very good numbers for both.  Just a better one from Cupertino.
• $4.6 Billion from Apple.  $2.1 Billion from Rim.  That comes out to about $667 per iPhone and $389 per Blackberry.  I know the numbers aren't that simple but just for comparison sake, they are what they are.
• Two hundred million apps to be served by iTunes app store tomorrow.  5,5K apps available, 11x times that of launch in June.
• No one asked about MobileMe today during financial call but just so we get that straight, it still sucks.  

As far as I'm concerned, Blackberries are still kind for anyone who is keeping scores.  These numbers are a snap shot of history through today.  There's a bit more to be made in the mobile war.  Google, Apple, RIM, and all the others can rest.  

More at On Apple.

Also, I've updated On Android  with shots and observations of my G1.  Please visit.  I'm provide an user-based review.  That means I'm receiving features as I use them.  No quickies.

The other news, which I don't like to bring to my fellow mobile warriors is Yahoo laying off 10% of its workforce.  I love this company.  I swear by it every day.  But man...weakening ads, increased competition, low morales...

Mobile Device Upate:

• Phone Report wants us to reacquaint ourselves with Xperia.  Wish the G1 looks like that.
• Gizmodo reports Blackberry app store...coming soon...oh jeez...March of 2009?!  Look at the terms.  See RIM's strategy?  No good for mobile warriors who arm themselves with Blackberries.  Yahoo News has more info along with Blackberry firmware update.
• Onxo - another telecom (this time in India) offers netbooks with wireless access.  I'm guessing US execs already did the numbers and find that it doesn't make financial sense.  Thanks for thinking country first.  Hope AWS-3 and white spaces kick their asses.
• Wired explained Google will have all the apps back tomorrow in time for the official launch.
• Liliputing lists 31 netbooks for $399 or less.  If you use live.com search, you can get a lot them for less via 30% off on eBay.  Just thought you might want to know.
  
• Onxo looks into October mobile surprises.
• RCR Wireless reports Firefox Mobile released.  Mobility Today reports new Opera Mobile beta released.
• Business Week has a report on Moto's Android plan.  See below on Mobility Today's post on MW woes.
• Engadget on MSI Wind - to get 3.5G integration in November.
• Another Macbook (aluminum) review.

Mobile Issues:

• Yahoo News  welcomes Sprint for coming, though late to the party.  Read why.  It has to do with termination fees.
• Onxo thinks Sprint needs Android.
• Onxo wants wireless providers to have their own Christmas Carol moment.
• Onxo goes through mobile categories and see if we might have a happy Christmas.
• TreoCentral reports on NY Times article questioning WM viability in an unforgiving mobile landscape where missteps give your competitors the opportunity to lead over you.
• The Apple Blog thinks Apple is about the provide subsidized Macbooks.
  
• Onxo on AWS-3 saga continues.
• Yahoo News on Symbian's open source future and hope.
• RCR Wireless reports teen market growth slows.  Either allowances are being with held or folks aren't having as many kids.
• Mobility Today thinks Windows Mobile is in trouble.

Tough Times May Lead To Great Deals

CNBC posed the question whether a souring economy will head to even better deals than what we've got in the last Holiday rush.  To keep factories and stores running, businesses have to keep consumer coming back for more.  Better gears.  Lower prices.  New jingles may help.

The problem is American consumers are scared and uncertain about their financial future or the direction this nation is headed.  Let's face the facts.  Here are some numbers from Gallup:

• 59% are worried about their financial future
• 78% consumer confidence
• 84% believes the economy will get worse
• 47% believes standard of living wil get worse, 34% believes things will improve

These are not good numbers if you're a business owner. But if you're out looking for stuff this Black Friday, you're in luck.  Let's look at each mobile category.

• Laptops - necessity but they'll be competing with Wind, EEE PC, and Mini Notes.  I've noticed a drop about 11% since the high of back-to-school with the values added (memory, HD space).  One of the thing I'm beginning to see a lot of pushing bigger screens for movies.  I have to say though the screens are bright and crisp.  But on the low-end, we'll see a lot of $400 laptops to compete with the netbooks.  Below $400?  It can happen with generic brands you find at Fry's.
• Netbooks - they're stuck at $400 for a while but some have already begun to crack it.  I've seen deals for as low oas $300 (retail around $450).  33% off.  No wonder Apple doesn't want to compete there yet.   Great deal if you're in the market for a simple easy to use machine.  Keep in mind, it's no laptop.  And if you do decide to pick one up, get one with a LED screen.
• Digital Cameras and Camcorders.  I  haven't taken a look at these lately.  Largely, because I have yet to find a reason to upgrade.  And this is an area where we might see a lot of great deals.  We're talking about consumers here.  Dave the Mobile Warrior.  Not a prosumer.  It's gotten complicated and the sector needs an iPhone-like shake-up.  Because of all the confusion, we may see a price drop.  And those 5MP cameras people picked up three years ago still work fine.  My Canon hi-def camcorder still works great from about two years ago.  
• MP3 players.  If you're not looking an iPod or Zune, there are deals now.  Once, MP3 players were locked behind glass cabinets are now just sitting in bins for the picking.  Style aside, these are great music players, san the multi-touching, social functions, or gaming.
• Mobile Devices.  There is definitely a possibility here.  Last year, we saw some wireless providers come out with some pretty good deals and I'm thinking, given the competition in the smartphone arena, we'll see some pretty good deals with Blackberries like the Curve.  Earlier, Sprint did well with promotion.  I'm guess others will follow.  Competition is fierce but for the top line devices, they'll be standing on their own merits.  I don't think we'll see price cuts coming to Storm, iPhone, Bold, or G1.  But then again with Sprint, I'm looking for them to pull something crazy with the data plan.
• Mobile Gaming.  DS and PSP.  It's going to be about bundles.  Typically, we won't see a lot of changes here.  With bundles, we'll see maybe a 5-10% saving.  Not a whole lot.  But that's taxes right there.  And while PSP is of the latest edition, DSi won't be available outside of Japan.  The iPod Touch will be mainly a media player, video and music.  It won't influence gaming or prices, if ever.

Already, you can get a jump on the rest of the herd by using live.com to save.  We've talked about it last week and we're very happy with our purchases.  Saving up to 30% on eBay is incredible.  Best of all, you don't even have to abandon your favorite search engines.  

Deals will start early to get the people excited.  We'll see things trickle out here and there from retailers.  Sort of like a taste of things to come.  Walmart will always bring its A-game.  Best Buy will try to knock out Circuit City one and for all.  

Amazon will do it's deal a day thing it always does.  eBay is hurting a bit so we'll see agressive promotions.  

Here's a tip:  sign up for newsletters from the etailers so you can get an early jump pricing and what's heavily promoted.

Link of Interest:  CNBC 

Mobile Update for October 20, 2008

I got my G1.  Look for my initial reactions tonight (tomorrow morning at On Android) and thorough review as I spend more time with it.  I can say this so far:  I'm excited, setup was easy, the location doesn't work well (I'll change locations and see if it gets any better), typing is difficult with the protrusion on the right hand-side.  Love the battery.  As in it's user-replaceable.   Apple, get with it!

But here's the biggest news of all today:  Apple and the Beattles have come together to create a limited edition iPod for $795.  Wow!

• Black iPod Classic
• 120GB
• Collector's Box
• 13 Original Beattles CDs, two Masters, Love CD
• Engraved guitar
• 2,500 units made
• $795
• Info:  Wired , Sold only at Bloomingdale's 

Mobile Device Update:

• Liliputing lists 31 netbooks for $399 or less.  If you use live.com search, you can get a lot them for less via 30% off on eBay.  Just thought you might want to know.
  
• Onxo looks into October mobile surprises.
• RCR Wireless reports Firefox Mobile released.  Mobility Today reports new Opera Mobile beta released.
• Blackberry Cool hands on with Storm.  Must read.
• Electronista on Moto's Android phone.  But I only got my G1 today...
• Business Week has a report on Moto's Android plan.  See below on Mobility Today's post on MW woes.
• Engadget on MSI Wind - to get 3.5G integration in November.
• Crunchgear on book industry's careful optimism regarding Kindle.
• Engadget on PSP 3000 hands-on.
• Of all the days to take down apps on Android Marketplace, Google does it the day I get my G1.  Engadet reports.
• Another Macbook (aluminum) review.

Mobile Issues:

• The Apple Blog thinks Apple is about the provide subsidized Macbooks.
  
• Onxo on AWS-3 saga continues.
• Yahoo News on Symbian's open source future and hope.
• RCR Wireless reports teen market growth slows.  Either allowances are being with held or folks aren't having as many kids.
• Mobility Today thinks Windows Mobile is in trouble.

Oct-Nov Surprises for Mobile Warriors?

October surprises in an election are about last minute developments on the political, economic, or international stages that can change the course of history.  And elections.

Osama bin Laden may be found and brought to justice.  The DOW and housing recovering by the end of the week.  That would help Senator McCain.  Or should the polls narrow, Senator Obama may take actually change his middle name to "Steve" as he said at last week's fundraiser for the New York Archdiocese.

What about an October surprise for mobile warriors?  Perhaps even November?  Here some areas I think we want to watch out:

• Wireless providers - change plans to reflect the economic reality and to retain users from poaching other competitors with special mobile devices like the iPhone with ATT and smartphones like Storm with Verizon.  Most vulnerable here is Sprint of the Big Four.  T-Mobile is now armed with the G1.  That'll help a bit.  Not much I think.  Perhaps we might see another $10 knocked off the unlimited talk plan or more minutes for the rest of the folks.  I don't think we'll see anything happen with the texting plan, although that might help with the texting class action lawsuit the Four are embroiled in right now.  Surprises are possible.  

• Blackberry Bold.  ATT had a launch party for the Bold.  Except the Bold was not invited.  We might see it this week.  Pricing?  $199 will be more in line with fellow ATT device, the iPhone 3G.  This reminds me of a gymnastic competition.  You've got team competition:  ATT, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint going at it.  Then you've got the individual events.  Bold and the iPhone, on the same team, but going for the Gold.  Anyway, no surprise likely here.  

• Blackberry Storm.  Despite the iPhone success of late, I don't know how the momentum will hold up.  Lots of competition out there.  Not exactly like the MP3 market.  When people think smartphone, they still think Blackberries.  And they're still the one to beat as far as I'm concerned.  This Holidays, it won't be so much about BB versus the iPhone but BB versus BB.  More specifically, Storm versus Bold.  If you're in the market for a BB, you have to chose between the Storm, Curve, and the Bold.  Flip, manybe.  Ultimately, it's Storm with its new touch interface or Bold with its traditional QWERTY layout.  Storm will only need to compete not with the iPhone on price but with Bold.  The only surprise may be the price.  $99 would put an awful lot of press on the iPhone.  

• Nokia.  N-series with multi-touch?  No surprises here.  I'm hoping someone will pick up the N96 and provide subsidy but doesn't look like it's gonna happen.  The 5800 is cool except it doesn't have anything new except for the music subscription.  The surprise from Nokia more on the gaming front.  

• Windows Mobile.  None.  
• MP3 market.  None.

• Android.  None.  G1.  That's it.  

• Gaming market.  DSi and PSP 3000.  No surprises here.  We already know we won't be seeing the DSi outside of Japan this winter.  The Holiday line-up from Nintendo and Sony are done as far as portable gaming is concerned.  Both items are still hot but I think it's possible someone will lower the price.  I think surprises are possible with bundles.  New colors.  Could be wishful thinking on my part.  Nokia could pull something out but it's remote.  Maybe a new N-800 series with more serious gaming capability.  Okay, not really.

• Apple surprises.  Alright.  I'll continue after you stop laughing.  Apple is due to refresh the iMac and the Pro desktop line-up.  But seriously, there could be a surprise.  the Mac mini has been left for dead.  Look, the Apple TV may be a "hobby" but the Mac mini is the experiment gone wrong and Apple doesn't know what to do with it.  Given the lack of progress that we can see public with it, I'm willing to bet serious money that the mini may emerge as something that has both tradtional Mac functions and Apple TV's hackability and connectivity.  Sell it for the same price, put it together with the new Nvidia chipset, and you'll get yourself one of the hottest computer this Holiday.  Make sure you're willing to pay for this.  Surprise from Apple?  A remote one though.  This is definitely wishful thinking on my part. But it's not like we haven't seen it happen before.  Apple TV came out of nowhere if you recall.  Oh, one more thing:  no "Bricks", netbooks, or tablets.  But I hope I'm wrong!

• Netbooks.  Those morning, Buy.com is advertising the Aspire One from Acer for $310.  Retail for $500.  Despite the hotness of the computing category, competition is fierce.  Surprise?  Price drops!  Otherwise, hardware changes like to remain cosmetic or static.

Surprises?  I've got one more.  Subsidies.  With wallets thinning and getting lighter, tech giants will need to get shoppers more of a reason to go out this Holiday Seasons.  Subsidies to lock them into data, wireless, or other services to lower the initial cost of electronics could go beyond traditional handsets.  

So, I like to hear your October surprise.