How often when companies try to do something to “quietly” cover up a weak area, are they exposed in an exponentially more embarrasing way? Witness AT&T, the wireless home of the Iphone, as well as the carrier with the well-known network issues. Whether it was a conscious decision by them or not (it sure seems like it was), AT&T decided that the best way to combat their inadequate network coverage in the New York City metro area would be to “quietly” just stop selling the Iphone there.
No one would ever notice, I am sure is how the thinking went. That’s my guess anyway, but who knows how the thinking, or lack thereof, actually went, but whatever AT&T was trying to do, it backfired bad.
The Consumerist first broke the story and has ongoing coverage, here is a taste:
The iPhone is still available in Apple and AT&T stores in and around New York City. Just not online. Why?
Update 1: In a written statement, AT&T spokesman Fletcher Cook told Consumerist that “We periodically modify our promotions and distribution channels.” We have requested additional details, and will add them when and if they become available.
Update 2 (12/28/09): New York customers are now able to order iPhones via AT&T’s Web site. It would appear that the company has once more modified its “promotions and distribution channels.” We’ve requested a statement from AT&T, and will update this post it if and when we receive it.
You can check out The Consumerist for the latest response from AT&T.
