In July 10 2008 Apple introduced the appstore via an update to iTunes. On July 11, the iPhone 3G was launched and came pre-loaded with iPhone OS 2.0 with App Store support. Apple not only changed – once again – the game but also started their dominance of mobile applications.
Today, Times reported that 12 mobile operators including AT&T, Orange and Telefonica will band together to strike back at Apple. The alliance has more than 2 billion customers, and with the support of Samsung, Sony Ericsson and LG they will build an open technology platform designed to deliver applications to all mobile-phone users.
Vodafone has yet to commit to the new alliance. It has a collaboration with Verizon Wireless, China Mobile and Softbank of Japan to create a common technology standard.
The announcement will be made tomorrow at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.