Rumor has it that Verizon Wireless, the second largest mobile operator in the U.S., could become the second carrier in this country to offer the iPhone. Supposedly, Verizon and Apple are currently in negotiations, with an announcement expected for the next Macworld show, which takes place in January.

This rumor runs contrary to reports that AT&T, which has benefited greatly from the iPhone, is set to maintain its iPhone exclusivity through at least the end of the decade. If true, however, Apple would have to change out the GSM/UTMS (3G) radio currently in the iPhone for a CDMA/EVDO (3G) to support Verizon's network.

Verizon was, reportedly, Apple's first choice as a carrier-partner for the iPhone. Talks between Apple and Verizon apparently started a couple of years before the introduction of the iPhone in January 2007. But an agreement couldn't be reached in the end because Apple wanted too much control.