Reality Check, Aisle Two...

Right now, the rumor is no more than speculation--and, as anyone who follows iPhone news knows, there's always plenty of that to go around. Apple, of course, is staying mum on the matter (representatives weren't immediately available to answer our questions), but here are five reasons for some healthy skepticism about this latest scuttlebutt:

1. It's been reported before.

Yessir, this isn't the first time we've heard about an iPhone-Verizon deal. Back in September, suggested agreements between the two companies would be finalized by the end of 2008. (At least one tech publication is already from this week's report because of that.) The site said an announcement could come as early as . To be fair, it also said the deal could be revealed anytime during the year, so interpret as you wish.

2. AT&T likely still has an exclusive contract.