Vodafone likely European iPhone carrier?

Vodafone appears to be a leading candidate to become the iPhone’s carrier in Europe, according to a recent Credit Suisse research note. The investment bank believes that the carrier would represent a good bet for Apple because of its presence in most European markets, reports ZDNet Asia. Mike Grant, consultant at research firm Analysys, agrees — but only if the European iPhone contains 3G technology. “If Apple waits until [the iPhone’s] a 3G phone, then yes, I would say Vodafone is absolutely the frontrunner. It would be a perfect match,” said Grant. Vodafone’s main competition for the phone is Deutsche Telekom, according to Credit Suisse, who expects around six million European iPhone units to be sold in the first three years.