I predict that the iPhone will jump to a new carrier (maybe not exclusive) and there will be 1 more popular iteration of the device. At this point mainstream will realize that Apples mobile innovation ended on February 5, 2008 when they updated the first generation iPhone to 16GB. They will also realize that the innovation was only superficial. Apple will continue to make devices but sales will drop substantially.
I personally consider the iPhone as important device and a turning point in the way we interact with mobile devices. It's important because it bridge the gap between smart phones and dumb phones, attracted mainstream attention to the smart phones forcing other manufactures to finally start updating their user experience. However I like many other smart phone users realized early on that we would be taking a step backwards with iPhones in terms of functionality.
May you rest in peace iPhone!
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