Globe has just sent confirmed that they will be offering Nano-SIMs at their stores by next month, which hints that the telco may be eyeing an early rollout for the iPhone 5. Traditionally, any launch of a new Apple device usually meant a 3-4 month wait before it becomes locally available, something that may change with the new iPhone 5. It’s widely known that Apple is looking to get their products to as many hands as possible, eschewing exclusivity deals with carriers for wider distribution, so it’s not out of the question that we may see the new device on our shores earlier than usual. Globe’s statement accompanying the announcement does little to quell the fire (emphasis ours):
“The Nano-SIM cards are packaged and distributed in a way that is backward- compatible with existing SIM cards. The new design will offer the same functionality as all current SIM cards,” added ETSI. “When Nano-SIM cards enter production, their size will free up room inside mobile phones for additional memory and larger batteries, helping phone vendors create thinner devices”, revealed Giesecke & Devrient, a global pioneering innovator that provides end-to-end solutions for identification systems and mobile security applications.
“Once again, Globe pioneers in bringing the latest technologies to Filipino mobile phone users as we offer the revolutionary Nano-SIMs in our Globe Stores with the availability of newer smartphone models using this type of SIM very soon. With the Nano-SIM and its stunning features and specifications, our smartphone experience will definitely be taken to another level,” said Martha Sazon, Head of Globe Postpaid.
Since it’s widely rumored that the iPhone 5 may very well be the first Nano-SIM handset (which makes sense, since they fought for it in the first place). We’ll know more once Apple launches its device on September 12.