LEAK: SPRINT BLACKS OUT FIRST HALF OF OCTOBER FOR LAUNCH OF "MAJOR PHONE"

An internal memo obtained from Sprint employee indicates the carrier will have the iPhone5 and it will launch the first week of October. The memo states lists blackout dates, during which employees cannot take vacations, from September 30 to October 15 in anticipation of a "major phone" launch. Blackouts are common among carriers for devices expected to be in high demand. It ensures retail stores have enough staff to handle the anticipated crowds. Since no other phone is expected launch, much less any that would require blackouts, it is expected this will be the launch of Apple's highly anticipated iPhone5.