Sources inside European carriers have reported that Apple has been working with SIM-card manufacturer Gemalto to create a special SIM card that would allow consumers in Europe to buy a phone via the web or at the Apple Store and get the phones working using the Apple App Store, reports "GigaOm" (http://gigaom.com/2010/10/27/is-apple-about-to-cut-out-the-carriers/).

It’s rumored that Apple and Gemalto have created a SIM card, which is typically a chip that carries subscriber identification information for the carriers, that will be integrated into the iPhone itself. Then customers will then be able to choose their carrier at time of purchase at the Apple web site or retail store, or buy the phone and get their handset up and running through a download at the Apple App Store as opposed to visiting a carrier store or calling the carrier, says "GigaOm."