Verizon Wireless released its first CDMA iPhone ad to YouTube on Friday in preparation for the handset’s introduction next month. The TV ad’s visual content is simple and acknowledges longtime subscriber frustration about not having Apple’s iconic handset on Verizon’s network.
The 30-second spot features shots of clocks counting down the minutes. The ad concludes with a simple voice message: “To our millions of customers, who never stopped believing that this day would come, thank you.”
In light of the data-congestion headaches that iPhone provider AT&T has had in major metropolitan areas, there’s another simple message for Verizon subscribers. “As the saying goes, ‘Careful what you wish for,'” noted Lisa Pierce, an independent wireless analyst at the Strategic Networks Group.
Not Easy To Switch
There’s another reason why Verizon’s first iPhone ad is squarely directed at the company’s subscribers. Although customers at other wireless carriers may also find the Verizon-Apple combo attractive, Pierce noted that it won’t be easy for them to switch carriers since most are committed to service contracts of one to two years.
A potential problem for business customers looking to switch is that Verizon Wireless’ advertised 3G footprint doesn’t always live up to customer expectations — particularly in areas with less-dense populations, Pierce observed. “Given the company’s strategic focus, I expect this to continue going forward,” she added.
The problem for Verizon is that this is important to business customers, Pierce said. “One of my Fortune 500 clients is switching from Verizon Wireless back to its former provider due to 3G coverage issues right now,” she noted.
Demand may also be less than if Verizon had landed the iPhone around this time last year. “I completed a project a year ago that showed survey results favoring an overwhelming interest in Verizon plus Apple — the most desirable service provider combined…