The AT&T exclusive period was in return for giving Apple control of the device, iOS, and the update process. It's important to remember just how much control o

The AT&T exclusive period was in return for giving Apple control of the device, iOS, and the update process. It's important to remember just how much control over third party devices the carriers once had. Even after the period of exclusively ended, Apple didn't add other carriers until they were likewise willing to waive their prior restrictions. The ability to control the update process remains a competitive advantage today.