Rumors are circulating the web speculating Verizon wireless is searching for a way to compete with AT&T in the smart phone market. Microsoft, Verizon, Google and Apple are all pushing to seize America’s smartphone market.

CNet-TV says the sole rights to sell Apple’s iPhone have given AT&T a major advantage.

“The Wall Street Journal is reporting that AT&T exclusive deal to carry the iPhone is up next year and AT&T C.E.O. is in discussions to extend it to 2011. Now it has never been publically stated how long the exclusive deal with last but it is pretty obvious keeping the iPhone away from its rival competitors is key” (CNET)

Reuters says Apple looks to be playing AT&T against Verizon …

"It makes sense for Apple to spread the love to Verizon and it makes sense for Verizon to have iPhone and it makes sense for AT&T to make sure that doesn't happen… The winner is Apple either way.” (Reuters)

Intomobile.com features this cartoon on their website highlighting rumors that Verizon could be developing it’s own version of the iPhone.

“Verizon like a vengeful rival, is planning to fight AT&T’s Apple iPhone release with their very own iPhone killer.” (Intomobile)

The U.K.’s Telegraph.com looks at another potential addition to the market.

In an article headed “Microsoft eyes a slice of the iPhone market”, the site says Microsoft’s CEO has been interested in developing a competing product to the iPhone. The talks are so hush-hush they’ve been codenamed “pink”. (The Telegraph)

San Francisco’s ABC7 highlights Googles’ attempt to add it’s smart phone to the mix. It’s called Android and is an operating system similar to the iPhone.

“Android is a new operating system backed by Google. Some of the biggest mobile operators and handset makers have jumped on board. It promises to speed up development of new mobile applications for consumers.” (ABC 7)

PC World says the rumors of a deal between Apple and Verizon along with the addition of the Android, might push Microsoft to speed its rumored launch.

“With iPhone buzz running rampant and Android building momentum of its own, a kick in the keister may just what Microsoft mobile needs.” (PC World)

Venture Beat does not discount Verizon’s ability to offer both the iPhone as well as Google’s Android operating system with the headline…

“Verizon flirts with Apple, but Anadroid is already girlfriend material.” (Venture Beat)

So what do you think about the spread of smart phones? Do you think that Apple will still win the overall “battle”?