Even though everyone has been clamoring for a Verizon based iPhone, it’s looking somewhat unlikely at this point (more on that below). It has been confirmed that AT&T and Apple signed a five year deal for iPhone exclusivity. Many hypotheses also conclude that the length and strength of said deal may have to do with the iPad’s contract free data plans and changed upgrade eligibility dates. Sounds like a winning combination to me, AT&T gets the world’s most popular phone (arguably) and Apple gets to cut some special deals for their customers.

Engadget is claiming that the deal may not be completely valid as deals can always be amended, renegotiated or just broken altogether. Furthermore, there’s still all that evidence that Verizon is getting the iPhone. I’m not so sold on on the prospect as Verizon has done nothing but attack it since day one, but competition can’t hurt, right? Maybe I’m just bitter that I’m on the worst carrier.