AT&T Already Working on 6G, Says 5G iPhones Might Not Be 'Massive Event' Due to Economic Uncertainty

Apple's upcoming launch of 5G iPhones might not be a "massive event" due to economic uncertainty amid the global health crisis, AT&T Communications CEO Jeff McElfresh said in a paywalled interview published by CNBC.

iPhone 12 5G New 1
"I do believe that you will see many of the iPhone subscribers move to upgrade to the device," said McElfresh. "But I wouldn't forecast that it's going to be a massive event. I also don't think it's going to be a nonevent. I think customers, based on the pressures of the economy that we're all facing today, will make a calculated decision as to what they want to do. And we're going to be there to offer them any device that Apple launches here shortly."

McElfresh added that AT&T already has engineers working on next-generation 6G networking, noting that it will take years before the technology fully materializes. No further details were shared about these efforts.

Apple is widely expected to unveil four new iPhones later this year, including one 5.4-inch model, two 6.1-inch models, and one 6.7-inch model. While flagship iPhones have started at $999 in recent years, Apple still has an opportunity for success in a price-conscious market this year if the 5.4-inch "iPhone 12 mini" starts around $749, as this device is expected to have an OLED display and 5G support just like higher-end models in the lineup.

Despite the global health crisis, Apple posted a June quarter revenue record of $59.7 billion. The results were boosted by strong iPad and Mac sales as more customers work, learn, and connect with family and friends from home.

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Top Rated Comments

dannyyankou Avatar
62 months ago
Yeah I’m sure some graphic designer at AT&T is working on a 6G logo as we speak
Score: 93 Votes (Like | Disagree)
dannyyankou Avatar
62 months ago

I hate the year of 2020. Everything is messed up. Hoping iPhones gets released soon.
Of all the messed up things about 2020, new iPhones being a month late is at the veryyyyyyy bottom of my list.
Score: 47 Votes (Like | Disagree)
zorinlynx Avatar
62 months ago

Yeah I’m sure some graphic designer at AT&T is working on a 6G logo as we speak
*clicks between the "5" and the "G"*

*hits backspace*

*hits the "6" key*

"CHECK IT OUT BOSS!!"

"Outstanding. This is why we pay you the BIG BUCKS."
Score: 43 Votes (Like | Disagree)
HylianKnight Avatar
62 months ago
I’m sure their 6G rollout will be faux 6G
Score: 29 Votes (Like | Disagree)
kerr Avatar
62 months ago
7G is the one to wait for
Score: 22 Votes (Like | Disagree)
TheLisnakFactor Avatar
62 months ago
To me this sounds like ATT making a cop out. They’ve been doing shady stuff since the 4G and 5Ge logos are nothing but marketing lies. I switched away from them years ago and wouldn’t trust anything they say.
Score: 21 Votes (Like | Disagree)