UA providing iPhones to cabin crews

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Interesting cross-marketing approach from Apple...

http://seekingalpha.com/article/2749125-analysis-united-buys-apple-smartphones

On Wednesday, the airline announced a new initiative, buying 23,000 iPhone 6 Plus smartphones from Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) for flight attendants. The devices and corporate apps will put, according to United, "safety and service information at flight attendants' fingertips, while enhancing their ability to meet customers' needs." Other details from the United press release on the deal:

"Upon introduction, the devices will have the ability to handle most onboard retail transactions and will enable access to company email, united.com and the company's Intranet as well as policies and procedures manuals."
"Future enhancements include providing real-time reporting and improved follow-up on aircraft cabin issues and repairs. Additionally, United plans to develop a number of customer-focused tools for the device."

Beyond the surface, this is yet another nail in the coffin of Blackberry. If the device encryption on the iPhone is good enough for these types of transactions, who really needs RIM?