Apple’s CDMA-based iPhone will most likely find a new home with China Telecom during the first half of 2012, UBS analysts Jinjin Wang and Maynard Um said in a note to clients — as reported by “The Mac Observer” (http://www.macobserver.com). If so, China Telecom will get what they see as a “much needed” addition to its high-end phone lineup, the article adds.

“Jinjin Wang believes that China Telecom needs an improved handset portfolio and more support from third party distribution channels in order to drive further stand alone wireless service,” Um said. “The CDMA iPhone launch should be a positive driver as it will also help China Telecom penetrate the high-end segment.”