Softbank offers 8GB iPhone free under a 2 year contract

Japanese iPhone carrier Softbank Mobile will introduce a new program giving customers free 8GB iPhones under a two year contract. Disappointment looms for those who just handed by $235 (or about 22,782 Yen) with the plan starting on Friday.

Although not clear, Softbank may be employing the philosophy that every duration the price of the iPhone has dropped, demand has increased. that possibility was noted during last months earning conference call by Apple COO Tim Cook. Sales of the iPhone in Japan have been slower than expected where that plan by Softbank may potentially create the perfect springboard for iPhones into the market. Softbank are starting the “iPhone for everybody Campaign“, with the Mobile Corporation offering price cuts across the board by reducing the maximum monthly details plan rates (from $62 to $45.60) with free texts

and voice calls to other Softbank Customers on the 3G Network.

It is interesting that sales have been apathetic with Japanese mobile phone users who have been playing around with advanced devices for years. Compared to data-capable touch-screen phones in the US which are, in the grand scheme of things, a newer notion, iPhones have been selling like hotcakes. The success or failure of the program will be one to watch both from the initial uptake from Japanese Mobile Users as well as lengthy term carrier revenue. whether employment of such a campaign can create market turnaround and maintain customer loyalty, I can only hope other carriers jump on the bandwagon of offering free phones under long-term contracts. I’ll be honest - I’ll take a free iPhone. That price is right!

[via CNET]

[Source] Alison Spong

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