After an incredible amount of speculation, the rumors are over. The Verizon iPhone is out and people are flocking to the new carrier. Some people are wildly excited while others are disappointed; expecting more. At first sight, it’s the same iPhone 4 we all know and love. However, the differences are in the software and in the inside of the device.
Because of the nature of Verizon’s network (CDMA) you cannot do some things such as use internet of any kind while on a call or go to other countries and use it there. Before I get any trolls I would like to point out you can, in theory, go to other countries and use it; provided they have a CDMA network of course. The problem lies in CDMA's adoption. Very few carriers use it. AT&T's network on the other hand is a GSM network. This does not have any of the limitations of CDMA that I have described. You can use data and be on a phone call at the same time. You can also use your phone in other countries confidently knowing they are very, very likely to have a GSM network.
Despite the disadvantages, there is a key advantage to a Verizon iPhone. And quite frankly, this is huge for travelers. First, you can use your iPhone as a portable hotspot. Yes, the feature on Android that so many people went nuts for is now on the Verizon iPhone.
It’s also important to point out that a Verizon iPhone will likely cause Verizon’s network to flounder; especially since they are offering mobile hotspot functionality. Since Verizon is much better a voice than at data, it will be interesting to see how Verizon’s network reacts to this sudden load.
