Is Apple about to launch its own virtual network?
Apple is apparently in talks with telecoms companies in Europe, according to Business Insider. Not only that, but it is reported to be privately trialling a MVNO service in the US.
A MVNO is a virtual carrier network. Apple would essentially be leasing network space from carriers. Instead of paying your carrier, you would instead pay Apple for data, calls, and texts.
However, Apple’s SIM would switch between carriers to get the best service. So you shouldn’t have to worry about black spots and dropped calls.
Of course, there’s no guarantee that Apple’s service will go beyond a test phase. Even if it does, it could take several years before the service is launched. There have been rumours and reports that Apple would launch a MNVO for almost a decade now, so don't hold your breath.
For its part, Apple is denying that it’s planning a MVNO service. Some have speculated that this is simply to appease carriers who may be worried by this news.