As if wireless carriers didn't already have mixed feelings about Apple's
Recent figures from network researcher Arieso claim that Cupertino's latest and greatest iPhone 4S is a bona fide data hog. Users of the gadget consume nearly twice the amount of data as those using its predecessor, the iPhone 4, and three times as much data as the iPhone 3GS. Arieso is quick to pin the blame on Apple's Siri virtual assistant, which is exclusively available on the newest model.
Since Siri needs a network connection to function, it's easy to jump to the conclusion that it's the culprit behind the data hogging. On the other hand, Ars Technica did a study when it first got its hands on Siri and found that even if you used it up to 15 times per day, you'd consume roughly an extra 28 MB of data per month. While results will vary, that's still pretty low, and unlikely to double anyone's usage, but Arieso's methodology certainly differs.
The company also compared the iPhone 4S to Google
According to the report, only two smartphone makers are "network friendly": Research In Motion
The figures highlight the need for carriers to continue aggressively investing in their network infrastructures to cope with soaring data demand, and is another reason why the iPhone is a mixed blessing for carriers. For example, Verizon
Tensions abound between Apple and carriers. Apple is the gatekeeper over what apps suck data through their networks. Carriers drool over the subscriber numbers the iPhone brings in. Apple undercuts their pure-profit SMS plans with free iMessage. Carriers have to pay 40% more in subsidies for the iPhone compared to other devices, while having to spend billions to beef up their networks. The list goes on.
Data gobbling is just another reason why carriers hate to love Apple, although I doubt it's Siri's fault.
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