Reuters writes: “Vodafone Group Plc said on Thursday it was concerned that the current model of iPhone mobile phones — Apple Inc’s latest “killer” gadget — did not operate on fast 3G networks.”

“Amid speculation that Apple, the innovative U.S. consumer electronics group, is close to handing a deal to Vodafone’s rivals to bring iPhones to European shores, the mobile phone giant said only any deal needed to make sense for shareholders.”

“Apple, whose iPhones operate over slower 2.5 generation networks in the United States, is not expected to bring out a 3G version until March 2008, analysts say. And Vodafone has invested heavily in its 3G network and services.”

“Sarin said virtually every mobile company was having a conversation with Apple, but that he could not comment further on any potential decision or announcement.”