Screenshots show Apple iPhone 5s being tested for China Mobile

The long rumored appearance of the Apple iPhone on the world's largest carrier looks like it is ripe for happening very soon. For years, China Mobile's proprietary 3G TD-SCDMA pipeline had kept Apple's iconic smartphone off the roster of China Mobile. But this year, Apple CEO Tim Cook made a few trips to meet with his counterpart at the carrier and rumors that a deal was struck just seems to get more and more support.

Just last week, a leaked poster ad for China Mobile showed 3G versions of the Apple iPhone 5s and Apple iPhone 5c. And in perhaps the strongest proof that the 750 million customers on China Mobile will soon have the option of purchasing the iPhone, screenshots showing the Apple iPhone 5s being tested on China Mobile's 4G LTE network were leaked. The Apple iPhone 5s supporting China-Mobile's TD-LTE network, has allegedly passed through China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The MIIT is similar to the U.S. FCC.

But as we told you last month, while the phone might have receive approval from Chinese regulators, China Mobile is still awaiting approval to turn on the switch to its 4G LTE service. Despite no official word that the carrier has received the green light, published reports say that China Mobile has started taking pre-orders for LTE service. Additionally, another published report shows screenshots of the 4G LTE services being offered by the Guangdong provincial affiliate of China Mobile. It all adds up to a launch soon of the Apple iPhone on the world's largest carrier. This is such a huge deal for both sides that we would expect a media event to take place when this becomes official.


source: CTechCn.com (translated)  Cellular-News, TechinAsia via UnwiredView

Six-month unlimited plan is now 57% off

$90

$210

$120 off (57%)

Mint Mobile is now allowing you to get whichever plan you like for either three, six, or 12 months for just $15/mo. If you go for the six-month unlimited service, for instance, you'll now have to pay just $90 upfront instead of $210.

Buy at Mint Mobile