Hmmm it is funny that Apple isn't mentioned, given its influence in the hardware side. A general suspicion has been that Apple will open up the iPhone to other

Hmmm it is funny that Apple isn't mentioned, given its influence in the hardware side. A general suspicion has been that Apple will open up the iPhone to other carriers with the next rev. I wonder if this will impact that plan at all (if it exists). Now, they don't need to expand the carrier offering to increase the customer base. But, it's a greater customer base entirely within AT&T. But, AT&T will now — presumably — have better coverage. But, AT&T is already strongly disliked as a brand, and this doesn't change that. And so on… I would think that Apple is at best wary of the merger, since, like the rest of the hardware providers, the increased bargaining power of the carriers is a problem.