Apple's iPhone to Debut at Wal-Mart?

Posted by: Olga Kharif on November 19

Several blogs report that Apple’s iPhone will go on sale at Wal-Mart on Dec. 28. Would this be the right move for Apple? You bet.

Last year, Apple had to resort to price cuts to keep the iPhone moving off the shelves after, months after launch, excitement over the phone had cooled. This year, with the phone already selling for a mere $200, expanded distribution in low-price chains might be a better answer than another price cut. By Dec. 28, the holiday shopping rush will be over. Many well-to-do consumers who’ve wanted an iPhone will have already gotten one from Apple’s own store.

Enter Wal-Mart, many of whose shoppers may have not even considered the device as too expensive — but who should consider it. Research shows that iPhone purchases among people earning less than $50,000 are rising faster than those for people with higher income. People who earn less are canceling their home broadband and phone services and turning to the iPhone for Web access and calls. They enjoy cost savings as a result. So selling the phone at Wal-Mart makes all the sense in the world. Apple wouldn’t comment on rumors.