eas @ Jul 11th 2007 4:06PM
Nokia has to tread lightly with respect to an open WiFi enabled cellular device that can run VoIP apps. Cell carriers aren't going to be in love with such a device, and Nokia has a hell of a lot of existing business (both handsets and network infrastructure) that could be at risk if they piss them off. The companion device approach gives them more room to manouver. If they can rely on early adopters to help them while the polish the feature set and build a software ecosystem, then they'll be in a much stronger position. Especially since now the iPhone probably has carriers looking for leverage in negotiating with Apple.

Apple could play hardball with carriers regarding various aspects of the iPhone, to the extent they did, because they didn't have existing business with the carriers that was at risk.