Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster thinks there is a 75% chance that Apple will bring out its own branded mobile phone within the next 12 months. According to a report on iLounge, Munster's report includes the following note:
“Additionally, we believe Apple will benefit from the new Intel-based Mac’s, along with what we estimate to be a 75% chance of a iPhone in the next 12 months.”
Apple partnered with Motorola with the ROKR E1, but Apple's involvement was limited to software. The handset was chided in most reviews for poor design and usability, an area that Apple has used to make its iPod line into a multi-billion dollar business. Some rumors peg Apple starting its own mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) and selling a phone with its branded service directly through its existing retail channels.