While locked out UK mobile networks continue to run the gauntlet with Apple as they try to get hold of contract-free iPhones on the European continent, Orange’s vice president of sales and loyalty said that the company would not be launching a price war with O2 and Vodafone pre-Christmas, but instead was focussed on “being price competitive”.

We had hoped that when Orange and Vodafone got official rights to sell the iPhone 3G and 3GS in the UK, there might be some price cuts on offer, but it seems this yawnfest of a recession and the continued need for mobile operators to make as much cash as possible off its customers will minimise that chance.

The new deals will see operators retain all revenues from airtime used, as per standard mobile phone contracts, which is probably why they’re even less keen for cost-cutting iPhone apps.

If you’re one of the five people left in Britain who hasn’t bought an iPhone, you may still need to ensure you have a hefty credit limit on your card.

Via

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