The CDMA version of the Apple iPhone 4 is nearing production status according to Daring Fireball’s John Gruber, supporting recent rumours. Codenamed N92, the device has reached the Engineer Validation Test (EVT). Beyond this are only the Design Validation Test (DVT) and production stages. “So it’s right about where you’d think it would be if it were scheduled to go on sale in January,” says Gruber.
A timeline suggested by Gruber also supports earlier rumours. Look for Apple and Verizon to make an announcement at CES 2011 before sales start later that month.
Gruber also raises the possibility that the CDMA-based iPhone could be headed to other CDMA carriers. A deal between Apple and Verizon certainly does not preclude this possibility.