Users buying their iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus from AT&T and T-Mobile are getting a version of the device that won’t fully work on Verizon and Sprint networks, Recode recently reported. An examination of the fine print on AT&T and T-Mobile agreements shows that Apple’s use of an Intel modem in those devices makes them incompatible with the CDMA standard still used by Sprint and Verizon.
The Qualcomm modems used in other iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus devices work across more carriers, but splitting up the modem orders between Intel and Qualcomm gives Apple more leverage in negotiations with its suppliers. While most users stick with their carrier over the life of their phone, the modem difference could prove problematic for AT&T and T-Mobile users looking to switch for one reason or another.
Apple, Intel and Qualcomm all declined to comment.
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