The myth of the Verizon iPhone has a long and tortuous history that dates back to original model of Apple's device, and in the last several years it's been one of the most frequently-asked questions I've fielded in both my personal and professional capacities. (If were any indication, I expect my blood-pressure to go down accordingly once a Verizon iPhone is announced--at least until people fill the void by demanding to know when Apple is going to make Macs with 3D displays or iPhones with remote Pop-Tart delivery.)

So, should Verizon and Apple's relationship consummate in an iPhone, what kind of effect can we expect on the mobile phone market? Given how long and strongly a Verizon iPhone has been anticipated, it seems hard to argue that it be a major seismic shift. Heck, the two companies have been the subject of more watercooler whispers than any couple since Ross and Rachel. (I would tell kids to ask their parents about that one, but that just makes me feel old.)

In expectation of Verizon's announcement on Tuesday, let's take a look at the road thus far and see what's around the bend for Apple, Verizon, AT&T, and consumers.