Last year’s iPhone launch was a spectacular media circus, mostly because Apple knew how to hype the it. Apple’s push for the new iPhone 3G hasn’t been as dramatic as last year, but everyone is already excited about the next iteration of the device. Here are some tidbits about the next big Apple launch event.
When and where. The iPhone 3G launch will take place at 8 AM local time, at all Apple and AT&T retail stores. But which of both stores is the best one to try your luck? Many will be hitting the Apple stores, as it’s surely the best place to be for an Apple launch, but many others have considered that should activation difficulties arise, the best place to be would be an AT&T store. This choice is just best left up to the end user. Since it’s been confirmed that the iPhone 3G will require some sort of in-store activation, it’s unknown at the time whether it will be sold elsewhere or online.
The real cost. For all qualifying AT&T customers (with good credit): the 8 gig iPhone will be sold for $199, and the 16 gig iPhone for $299. Those who do not qualify will have the opportunity to buy it at a higher price: $599 and $699, respectively. However, some customers who do not qualify might be able to get the iPhone 3G for the advertised price, but will have to make some sort of deposit in order to ease AT&T’s mind regarding your credit.
The real cost, part two. After you’ve paid for the precious iPhone, it’s time to prepare that credit card of yours and apply for a monthly cell phone plan. AT&T has the 400-minute plan with unlimited 3G access for around $70 per month. There are other plans available, but for power users there’s the plan with unlimited voice for around $130 per month. If you want text messages, that’ll be extra — $5 for 200, and up to $20 for unlimited. Now just sign that two-year contract and you’ll be good to run off and enjoy the most coveted phone of 2008.
What about current iPhone users on the Go Phone plan? Whether you preferred this more expensive plan to a two-year contract, or your credit just wasn’t enough, there are some good news and bad news for you. Yes, AT&T has been mumbling that those who bought an unsubsidized iPhone and have had their account in order (no problems paying and had EDGE active) are qualified to pick up a new iPhone at the $199 or $299 price. Just upgrade your account to the two-year contract and you should be fine, AT&T says. Also, there’s been mention that you will be able to retain your current number and pass whatever credit you have in the account to your new contract. The bad news is what was noted at the beginning: AT&T has been mumbling about this piece of news. That’s said because the overall user’s luck in finding an answer to this question has been varying from AT&T rep to rep. The best bet is to head off at your local AT&T store and find out what the future holds for you. I know I’ll be doing exactly just that.
Crowd control. The same crowd control methods as last year’s launch are supposed to go into place. But since this launch will take place in the morning instead of the afternoon, there’s always the element of surprise as to what expect. Will eager campers spend the night there? Or will they just arrive there in time for the launch? Or will the masses come throughout the whole day?
I already have an iPhone. Is the upgrade worth it? The only important upgrades that the new iPhone has received is 3G capability and built-in GPS. Other than that, it’s the same device on a new shell. It is even going to be available in the same capacities as before: 8 and 16 gigs. The iPhone 3G has the same screen, camera, and functionality as previous iPhones because the 2.0 update is going to be available for free for old iPhones. So it’s pretty much a question of whether you’re going to use the 3G connection (or if it is even available in your home town!).
And what can I do with my old iPhone? Other than selling it, AT&T has confirmed that after you’ve passed everything to the new iPhone, you’ll be able to use the old one as an iPod touch without problems. Also, the people at the AT&T stores will be more than happy to re-activate the old one on a new number.
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