Online Apple Store is Out of iPhones

[winterspan]

The iPhone 2 is no secret. It may get released without a lot of hoopla, just like the 16gb. Maybe as soon as Monday.
The big news in June will be all the apps, .mac, enterprise etc.
The new iPhone IMHO will not be that different, just with 3g and a few other items. Just a guess.

You may have a good point here. The more I think about it, the more it makes sense. Maybe Apple does not want to cast the 3G iPhone in a light of "new and different" and not want it to necessarily represent "iPhone 2.0", but more just a hardware update to the original iPhone. This would make sense if they want to focus all the attention on the software platform and on all the new software features and applications coming to BOTH models. In this way, instead of making all of the existing owners want to immediately upgrade, thinking they have an "old" phone, they create an atmosphere of "inclusiveness" where any iPhone is capable of taking advantage of this great new software platform. In That way they don't devalue the original device while at the same time making new and improved hardware available for all the people who were holding out for 3G (and GPS perhaps). In the same vein, they can finally launch a modern UMTS iPhone in all the European and Asian countries which were not a fit for the EDGE model and also in the few that launched the EDGE version but did not see much success.


Another thought I had is that they are going to release the 3G iPhone before WWDC because they are going to introduce a TOTALLY NEW DEVICE there, like say an UMPC/MID/multi-touch tablet. There was a rumor a few months back regarding this.. They said a tablet-like device in the spirit of a "larger iPod Touch" would be released.. interesting enough they also said the 3G iPhone would be released in May.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out...

[D4F]

Did you purchase them from the online store?

People are getting the unavailable thing because they are unavailable at the Apple Online store.

Yes.
Apple Online Store.

[acaullier]

Orange France apparently has no more stock of iPhone. No information on how long until they get stock again.
Definitely weird considering that France is known to have lower than expected sales of iPhones and therefore plenty of stock
Definitely sounds like a sooner than expected release of 3g model
Well, as I live in Japan, I can't wait for this 3g iPhone to come out here ...

[icantbelieveit]

i hope this isn't true, but just a thought: how about if Apple are doing an 'official' price reduction on their stock worldwide for the last month before the 3G version? The UK o2 price reduction went well, and maybe Apple have just made the iphone unavailable for the weekend and on Monday will lauch a big price drop to shift all the units they have in the US and Europe before the new one is released at Jobs's Keynote?

Though i suppose from reports the US is pretty short on them anyway actually, so may be no need :confused: but in Europe there seems to be a lot available officially from Apple in the UK at full price, and mainland Europe doesn't seem to be a shortage.

I just really hope they save WWDC for the software element and release the 3G iphone on fri 16th with a press conference after sending invites tomorrow (monday). Im sure theyll get enough people there and even those who cant at short notice, this story will be everywhere!

[Dagless]

The new iPhone IMHO will not be that different, just with 3g and a few other items. Just a guess.

But that's the thing - for the iPhone to be a 3G phone it needs to use the same features other 3G phones have such as a front facing camera for video calls. And it's clear as day they'll be updating the back camera with a higher resolution CCD.
If the iPhone OS2 and the current influx of new areas about to sell the phone tells us anything its that Apple is now taking the iPhone seriously. They've got a lot to compete against.

[Eraserhead]

maybe Apple have just made the iphone unavailable for the weekend and on Monday will lauch a big price drop to shift all the units they have in the US and Europe before the new one is released at Jobs's Keynote?

WWDC is for Mac OS X 10.6, the iPhone software will come before that. I think they'll be an announcement of the new iPhone in the next 10 days with the new software.

[kiwi031]

In my unqualified opinion, discontinuing the 1st Gen iPhone at this point in time is consistent with a 3G announcement no later than 3 or 4 weeks away - hooray for WWDC 08!

The thread about the AT&T Memo requesting staff to refrain from taking leave from Mid June to Mid July for "exciting new product launches" is the single most important piece of information available about the 3G iPhone. The apparently did the same thing last year, when the iphone was first released, the no-leave bracket consisting of two weeks before and after the release (29 June 2007). All this points to an announcement at WWDC 08 and ship date 29 June 2008, if all goes well! :D

Would love to see a worldwide, coordinated, and simultaneous release of the new iPhone in all the markets we know it will be released in (and hopefully, some more we don't know about yet!)

I'm also hoping to see Apple relaxing their demands regarding iPhone exclusivity, pesky contracts, revenue sharing (big gripe! :mad:)etc and make the best phone in the world and just let people actually buy it!

And here's what's making me sleep well at night - the iPhone was announced January 07, and reports indicate it was developed mostly in the 3rd and 4th qtr of 2006. Look at your calendar, this was almost 2 years ago. Imagine the amazing advances that have occurred over the last 2 years (notably in high end mobile handsets and their ever-falling prices!). To me, this points to a product equally as jaw-dropping as the 1st one. WWDC will be very interesting indeed!

Any Thoughts??? :apple:, please make my wishes come true! :rolleyes:

[bobbleheadbob]

I'm thinking the :apple: store goes down this Tuesday morning, and when it comes back up......the 3G iPhone -- with a 32 GB option -- is there for me to buy! :D :).

Then I woke up. :( Nice dream, though!

[Project]

But that's the thing - for the iPhone to be a 3G phone it needs to use the same features other 3G phones have such as a front facing camera for video calls. And it's clear as day they'll be updating the back camera with a higher resolution CCD.
If the iPhone OS2 and the current influx of new areas about to sell the phone tells us anything its that Apple is now taking the iPhone seriously. They've got a lot to compete against.

It doesn't need to have a front facing camera, given that barely anybody actually uses that feature outside of Japan.

[g8bo]

It doesn't need to have a front facing camera, given that barely anybody actually uses that feature outside of Japan.

combined with a good messenger app you could make video-chats... but i have to concede that it's mostely unused.

[drchipinski]

I have a feeling you'll see it restocked soon.

I think more rumors surrounding a May release would surface if the new iphone would be released before the expected June date.

If anything I could see a revised 16GB/32GB around the corner to throw even more people off (Or just getting rid of the 8GB)


I disagree with this. If it was in fact, backordered, the store would have stated...shipping in 10-14 days, etc. You do not even have a choice of waiting for one at this point.

They have very little to no inventory left, and I am sure you will see either a 32/64 option or a 16/32 option.

I would also agree with many others, that STEVE has always said it is the SOFTWARE that makes these things tick....the hardware may "look" different, but it can only have a larger memory and 3G. The rest is all through software.

I have been waiting to pass my 1st gen iphone off to my wife..the time may come much sooner than I thought.

T U E S D A Y....come on! :D

[Project]

I have been waiting to pass my 1st gen iphone off to my wife..


I'm in the same boat, but I am charging my girlfriend for it to fund the new purchase :D

[winterspan]

It doesn't need to have a front facing camera, given that barely anybody actually uses that feature outside of Japan.

combined with a good messenger app you could make video-chats... but i have to concede that it's mostely unused.

In the United States, manufacturers literally make an alternative version of most 3G phones and actually remove the forward facing camera for some reason. Seriously, There are next to zero phones with front cameras in the USA. I'm sure much of it has to do with carriers, especially Verizon having this done. In the UK, I understand that nearly EVERY 3G phone comes with a front camera, but instead of just being charged for data usage, the customers are charged BY THE MINUTE and this is in ADDITION to the regular minutes -- AKA special "Video calling minutes" that are a complete rip off. Hopefully the iPhone 3G has a front camera for all regions and Apple twists the arms of the carriers to throw in (at least some) free video calling minutes in iPhone plans..

[Project]

In the UK, I understand that nearly EVERY 3G phone comes with a front camera

But by the same token I have never in my life in the UK seen a person make a video call. Or even heard somebody talk about making one.

Its not down to the price IMO... its more of a cultural thing. I reckon its perceived as being "awkward".

[phatspider]

I'm in the same boat, but I am charging my girlfriend for it to fund the new purchase :D

How loving!

[Project]

How loving!

She's not my wife yet. I can get away with this stuff

[EvanLugh]

But by the same token I have never in my life in the UK seen a person make a video call. Or even heard somebody talk about making one.

Its not down to the price IMO... its more of a cultural thing. I reckon its perceived as being "awkward".

I make them all the time, for both work and recreational use.

[mccldwll]

I've thought, and posted, for months that would see 3G a couple of weeks before WWDC. This spreads out the news into a month of free PR. Looks like they may show up a couple of weeks early (although maybe announced in a couple of days, and shipping in a week or so). The bottom line is that apple won't be caught be without product for a month.
No opinion on the conferencing camera, but will want some hardware features other than 3G to differentiate models. POSSIBLY will not ship with 2.0 software and will not be 3G enabled immediately, though probably will since apps will be designed for new software. Will come with a couple of new apps, a few more may be available soon, and majority will be introduced starting at WWDC. My predictions.

[Project]

I make them all the time, for both work and recreational use.

You are in a very small minority

[macerroneous]

I didn't actually buy one to verify this, but ATT seems to be shipping both 8gb and 16gb phones. (ATT.com)

[macerroneous]

ATT is still stuffed with iphones. Steve takes his store down so they can liquidate their inventory. Maybe we'll actually see the Apple store refer customers directly to ATT.

[macerroneous]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU like Mac OS X; en) AppleWebKit/420.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/3.0 Mobile/4A102 Safari/419.3)

actually, contract probably says apple has to do this for their good partner ATT for a 30 day period. Therefore, new phones in stores June 10. Sorry.

[g8bo]

everything is possible (in america)!:D


isn't that a famous expression for americans?

[kappa76]

Could it be that Apple is trying to eliminate the issues they ran onto during the price drop & 16g intro?

Think about it....... They remove the current iPhone from the market which results in less yahoos complaining in June that they purchased an outdated item resulting in allot of returns of previous model iPhones. This sticks apple with a gangload of obsolite phones to deal with.

This could just be a way of avoiding the mess.

[stagi]

Could it be that Apple is trying to eliminate the issues they ran onto during the price drop & 16g intro?

Think about it....... They remove the current iPhone from the market which results in less yahoos complaining in June that they purchased an outdated item resulting in allot of returns of previous model iPhones. This sticks apple with a gangload of obsolite phones to deal with.

This could just be a way of avoiding the mess.

Sorry but that just doesn't make any business sense.

[macerroneous]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU like Mac OS X; en) AppleWebKit/420.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/3.0 Mobile/4A102 Safari/419.3)

actually, the more I think about it, the more I agree with myself. AT&T says"if you release new phone, we'll never sell our inventory of old ones" Steve says "just discount your inventory like our Euro partners" AT&T says "No, YOU stop selling them for 30 days so we can sell ours full price". Steve says "OK but that means no exclusive contract on the next phone!"

[macerroneous]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU like Mac OS X; en) AppleWebKit/420.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/3.0 Mobile/4A102 Safari/419.3)

BTW if I were Steve, I wouldn't want to steer my customers to AT&T website either. All iPhone competitors are prominently displayed. Count on Tuesday, June 10

[seedster2]

The anouncement of 3G iPhone isn't worthy of its own event. Yes, 3G is necessary for overseas sales, but foreign introductions have always taken place in their respective countries. Unless there is a radical redesign, domestic consumers outside of macrumors wont be lining up just because it's now 3G.

The software is more important. Many won't consider the iPhone because of its inability to get corporate email. People like to keep one device and have their employer pay for it.

With RIM announcing the new 9000 Tuesday on AT&T, Apple will have their hands full with a major adversary competing for rebate checks. Especially when they are certain that the BB9000 will be subsidized.

[g8bo]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU like Mac OS X; en) AppleWebKit/420.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/3.0 Mobile/4A102 Safari/419.3)

actually, the more I think about it, the more I agree with myself. AT&T says"if you release new phone, we'll never sell our inventory of old ones" Steve says "just discount your inventory like our Euro partners" AT&T says "No, YOU stop selling them for 30 days so we can sell ours full price". Steve says "OK but that means no exclusive contract on the next phone!"

but at&t isn't the provider from the uk, germany and france... so why should the whole world wait if at&t got only some remaining stocks?

i think we gonna hear some interesting news during the next week.

[elgruga]

The anouncement of 3G iPhone isn't worthy of its own event.

LOL! It doesnt NEED a special event - the worlds press will be all over it, and as AT&T are announcing their 3G network, this is VERY relevant in the USA.

Some of you guys seem to love to get grumpy and mean about Apple - kind of makes you redundant, you know.

[kappa76]

Sorry but that just doesn't make any business sense.
From a business stand point it makes more sense then being stck with a ton of returned iPhones that nobody wants.

[Tallest Skil]

...why should the whole world wait if at&t got only some remaining stocks?

It's more dramatic that way. It's a kick in the teeth of the U.S. AT&T.

I said this before-you can go back through my posts to confirm it-Apple is not going to go the full five years exclusive with AT&T in the U.S. The telecommunications industry is too frigtarded for Steve's taste.

Heck, in two years we might see a CDMA iPhone for Verizon users, but maybe that's just me being hopeful. And if Verizon doesn't switch to GSM like I've heard.

[sfoalex]

but at&t isn't the provider from the uk, germany and france... so why should the whole world wait if at&t got only some remaining stocks?

i think we gonna hear some interesting news during the next week.

I think we're going to hear something very soon too. I think we will see a pre-order form no later than Tuesday, perhaps sooner. I think people will start to place pre-orders now. I think we will see delivery all around the WWDC. Early pre-orders getting theirs slightly before WWDC with 2.0 pre-loaded on the phone.

I think you're going to see the following:

iPhone 16 GB or 32 GB
GPS* Either TeleNav for $9.99 or Free with Google Maps
Version 2.0 of the iPhone software
I think we're going to get Spore from EA for Free.
I think we're going to get an Apple branded iChat for iPhone.
I think we're going to get Copy & Paste.
I think we're going to get a better camera with Zoom in the software.
I don't think the camera will be facing you.
I hope Apple's in-store sells unlocked, while AT&T offers a subsidy.
I hope to see more features like Visual Voice Mail that we have not yet thought of.
Lastly I do hope dot Mac is enhanced with new Push Email and a better calendar, ToDo, and Notes which all sync with the iPhone.
Lastly, I do expect to see iTunes 8.0 with this release.

Alex Alexzander

[sassenach74]

I think we're going to hear something very soon too. I think we will see a pre-order form no later than Tuesday, perhaps sooner. I think people will start to place pre-orders now. I think we will see delivery all around the WWDC. Early pre-orders getting theirs slightly before WWDC with 2.0 pre-loaded on the phone.

I think you're going to see the following:

iPhone 16 GB or 32 GB
GPS* Either TeleNav for $9.99 or Free with Google Maps
Version 2.0 of the iPhone software
I think we're going to get Spore from EA for Free.
I think we're going to get an Apple branded iChat for iPhone.
I think we're going to get Copy & Paste.
I think we're going to get a better camera with Zoom in the software.
I don't think the camera will be facing you.
I hope Apple's in-store sells unlocked, while AT&T offers a subsidy.
I hope to see more features like Visual Voice Mail that we have not yet thought of.
Lastly I do hope dot Mac is enhanced with new Push Email and a better calendar, ToDo, and Notes which all sync with the iPhone.
Lastly, I do expect to see iTunes 8.0 with this release.

Alex Alexzander


That's a very good thought IMO, being able to pre-order now and get just before/same time as WWDC would save some lost sales between now and WWDC.

Everything in that list of yours seems reasonable too.

Neil.

[xbigman15x]

"iPhone 16 GB or 32 GB"

Umm, I'm pretty sure Apple will keep the 8GB and 16GB models because those are at and above many of the top phones on the market. People are going to buy the iPhone regardless if it has 8GB or 16GB so why should they pay the extra money and change it? When the new iPhone comes out, I am going to buy it and Apple knows there are many people like me who would do that. Now, with that said, I really wish they would eliminate the 8GB model and go for 16GB with the price of $399. That is just hopeful thinking and we all tend to do that a lot with apple and they end up letting us down in the end.

[sfoalex]

"iPhone 16 GB or 32 GB"

Umm, I'm pretty sure Apple will keep the 8GB and 16GB models because those are at and above many of the top phones on the market. People are going to buy the iPhone regardless if it has 8GB or 16GB so why should they pay the extra money and change it? When the new iPhone comes out, I am going to buy it and Apple knows there are many people like me who would do that. Now, with that said, I really wish they would eliminate the 8GB model and go for 16GB with the price of $399. That is just hopeful thinking and we all tend to do that a lot with apple and they end up letting us down in the end.

I hope they go with 16 and 32. In my opinion, setting the bar so much higher than all your competitors makes them all look like yesterday's garbage.

Alex Alexzander

[sassenach74]

"iPhone 16 GB or 32 GB"

Umm, I'm pretty sure Apple will keep the 8GB and 16GB models because those are at and above many of the top phones on the market.

I think it's reasonable to suggest there may be a 32gb version, that's a logical step to take in the progression of the device. Other phones may well have 8gb or less storage, but the iPhone is being touted as more than just a phone, ie an ipod, web browser, portable media player, photo storage etc etc, so the idea of a 32gb or even more fits in with that.

Neil.

[seedster2]

LOL! It doesnt NEED a special event - the worlds press will be all over it, and as AT&T are announcing their 3G network, this is VERY relevant in the USA.

Some of you guys seem to love to get grumpy and mean about Apple - kind of makes you redundant, you know.

Ironically, everyone was saying EDGE was fine for them and that they didnt need 3G if it would sacrifice battery life. It clearly still will diminish battery life quickly and is still primarily situated in metro regions and yet there is all of this hoopla. So I am not grumpy at all, just adding a little realism to all the sensationalism taking place.

But thanks for repeating my sentiment in a more positive manner. kinda makes you redundant too.

[Nitromaster]

I think we're going to hear something very soon too. I think we will see a pre-order form no later than Tuesday, perhaps sooner. I think people will start to place pre-orders now. I think we will see delivery all around the WWDC. Early pre-orders getting theirs slightly before WWDC with 2.0 pre-loaded on the phone.

I think you're going to see the following:

iPhone 16 GB or 32 GB
GPS* Either TeleNav for $9.99 or Free with Google Maps
Version 2.0 of the iPhone software
I think we're going to get Spore from EA for Free.
I think we're going to get an Apple branded iChat for iPhone.
I think we're going to get Copy & Paste.
I think we're going to get a better camera with Zoom in the software.
I don't think the camera will be facing you.
I hope Apple's in-store sells unlocked, while AT&T offers a subsidy.
I hope to see more features like Visual Voice Mail that we have not yet thought of.
Lastly I do hope dot Mac is enhanced with new Push Email and a better calendar, ToDo, and Notes which all sync with the iPhone.
Lastly, I do expect to see iTunes 8.0 with this release.

Alex Alexzander

I don't see free Spore as one, spore isn't released for other consoles until the last three months, and two would spore be a selling point for any consumers?

Front facing camera is likely in my opinion, especially when you mention iChat.
What improvements would iChat bring over AOLs official client apart from possible video chat support?

[g8bo]

they will increase the flash memory because apple wants that we use the more space for mp3 (over itunes), for movies (over itunes as well), programms (SDK)... and not to forget: if there is a GPS feature in the 3G version, it will require some space for preloaded maps (i would that prefer instead of load it all the time over UMTS or whatever... especially if there isn't a unlimited flatrate!

[PowerFullMac]

3G iPhone FTW! :D

[fltman]

Imagine this scenario:

Everyone expect a 3G iPhone for WWDC, Right? Yes.
Does Apple want everyone to expect the same things as they will be presenting? No!

So imagine this:

A 3G iPhone with GPS and whatever is released next tuesday. World press goes crazy! The Apple fan community goes crazy and the rumors starts over again, what will be released on WWCD? On WWDC the iPhone nano is introduced. :apple:

[PowerFullMac]

Imagine this scenario:

Everyone expect a 3G iPhone for WWDC, Right? Yes.
Does Apple want everyone to expect the same things as they will be presenting? No!

So imagine this:

A 3G iPhone with GPS and whatever is released next tuesday. World press goes crazy! The Apple fan community goes crazy and the rumors starts over again, what will be released on WWCD? On WWDC the iPhone nano is introduced. :apple:

I hope so, that would be great :)

[Peace]

WWDC is for Mac OS X 10.6, the iPhone software will come before that. I think they'll be an announcement of the new iPhone in the next 10 days with the new software.


I agree. 10.6 at WWDC. At least a partial showing.

Could it be that Apple is trying to eliminate the issues they ran onto during the price drop & 16g intro?

Think about it....... They remove the current iPhone from the market which results in less yahoos complaining in June that they purchased an outdated item resulting in allot of returns of previous model iPhones. This sticks apple with a gangload of obsolite phones to deal with.

This could just be a way of avoiding the mess.

From a business stand point it makes more sense then being stck with a ton of returned iPhones that nobody wants.

This is what I think Apple is doing. They would rather not have stock of the old iPhone and have people wonder when the new one is coming out than have a LOT of complaining from people that got the Rev.A then saw the new one and ask for a rebate fiasco.

[g8bo]

I hope so, that would be great :)

and how about europe (switzerland)? which country will receive it first? (according to your sense)

[PowerFullMac]

and how about europe (switzerland)? which country will receive it first? (according to your sense)

Well the stock of iPhones in the UK and US stores is running low so I would say UK first in Europe.

[Tallest Skil]

On WWDC the iPhone nano is introduced.

There would be almost as many returns of the 3G iPhone as there were purchases. Apple wouldn't do that.

[PowerFullMac]

There would be almost as many returns of the 3G iPhone as there were purchases. Apple wouldn't do that.

Hmmm... True, I think they would be launched simutainusly if they do release a iPhone Nano, of course.

On the other hand, the iPhone Nano will be a cheaper less-featured one so not everyone would bring back their 3G iPhones.

[bilbo--baggins]

I'll probably get a 3G iPhone partly because of faster data, partly because of larger storage now available (I have 8GB), but for me the iPhone is so amazing already that I'm not especially excited about these fairly trivial improvements.

[macerroneous]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU like Mac OS X; en) AppleWebKit/420.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/3.0 Mobile/4A102 Safari/419.3)

You guys are still failing to connect the dots:
1. Apple's 10q says they count phones shipped to carriers as already sold.
2. Euro carriers had to offer rebates to sell their stock.
3. AT&T continues to sell iPhones online (because they need to clear their inventory)
Now, why has apple stopped its online sales? Surely not because they're out of phones. It has to be to allow the carriers to clear stock. I bet apple has agreed to buy back unsold phones from carriers. Again, I don't think there'll be an announcement until AT&T stops online sales, or WWDC, whichever comes first. And new iPhones ship June 10.

[amac4me]

I doubt version 2.0 of the iPhone software will be ready by WWDC so it makes sense to release the new iPhone ahead of WWDC and simply rollout the software as an update.

[Pressure]

Ironically, everyone was saying EDGE was fine for them and that they didnt need 3G if it would sacrifice battery life. It clearly still will diminish battery life quickly and is still primarily situated in metro regions and yet there is all of this hoopla. So I am not grumpy at all, just adding a little realism to all the sensationalism taking place.

But thanks for repeating my sentiment in a more positive manner. kinda makes you redundant too.

*knock knock*
"Who's there?"
"The rest of the world that actually has country-wide 3G coverage"

[g8bo]

we've got 80% coverage für 3g! :D -> come to switzerland!:p

http://www.top-wetter.de/spezial/gletscher_hochalpen/matterhorn.jpg
that's the matterhorn, and yes, you even got 3G up there!!:D

[trevelyn]

Apple... Please replace the camera in the next generation iPhone. I am tired of using a cellphone camera thats stuck on a shutter speed of 1/15th of a second. Also, who made the optics? Mattel? They seem to have plastic toys covered quite well, I didn't realize they made substandard plastic optics, too. Seeing everything from a blurred perspective might be interesting at times... but give me a break! ;)

I'm not completely trashing the camera on the iPhone, I have taken some decent photos with it at times. But I have also been disappointed more times than pleased. :cool:

[seedster2]

*knock knock*
"Who's there?"
"The rest of the world that actually has country-wide 3G coverage"

I thought if Apple wanted a successful global release (profit sharing model), the V1 iPhone should have been 3G. It's Apple who tends to treat the global market without enough concern.;)

[xhambonex]

Apple... Please replace the camera in the next generation iPhone. I am tired of using a cellphone camera thats stuck on a shutter speed of 1/15th of a second. Also, who made the optics? Mattel? They seem to have plastic toys covered quite well, I didn't realize they made substandard plastic optics, too. Seeing everything from a blurred perspective might be interesting at times... but give me a break! ;)

I'm not completely trashing the camera on the iPhone, I have taken some decent photos with it at times. But I have also been disappointed more times than pleased. :cool:

I think the point is you are using a cell phone camera. I wouldn't expect the great results considering cell phone cameras seem to lack many camera features, like a flash.

[trevelyn]

If you are that concerned about using your phone as a camera, why not just use a camera? I think you'll be more pleased with your results.

I'm not too concerned about it. I just do not want to carry my Canon 1Ds Mark III with me everywhere I go. And I suppose I have been spoiled from living in Japan for awhile and owning a few phones that have better cameras on them. I do enjoy the idea of having everything I need (Well, would like to have) in one device. If I so desperately want to take clear pictures with a small compact device, I suppose I will just buy one of those Sony or Canon point and shoot cameras.

But hey! I'm allowed to be hopeful for a new camera in the iPhone. Along with 3G and potentially GPS capability, the iPhone would be one awesome device indeed.

I still wouldn't trade my 1st gen iPhone in for any other phone, even Japanese. I'll occasionally go into a Verizon store and putz around with some of the phones in there. For some reason, I am not impressed with anything else these days. Everything else really seems archaic to me.

[trevelyn]

I think the point is you are using a cell phone camera. I wouldn't expect the great results considering cell phone cameras seem to lack many camera features, like a flash.

I agree with you completely! I suppose I am just ranting because I would like to see a bit more out of the iPhone camera. There are plenty of other phones out there that have quite decent cameras. Phone cameras with a flash, digital or optical zoom, can change shutter speed, aperture, color balance, etc.

[Shasterball]

Isn't June only 3 weeks away? :p

But the end of June... :(

[BongoBanger]

I think the point is you are using a cell phone camera. I wouldn't expect the great results considering cell phone cameras seem to lack many camera features, like a flash.

Virtually all new camera phones have flashes. The point of MMCs like the later N-series models is that you only ever have to carry one device digital device.

[iphonesarecool]

I think the new :apple: Iphone should at least have

3G
GPS
3.2MP or even a 5 MP camera + flash.
More memory (16GB & 32GB)


____________________

30GB Ipod Classic

[LizKat]

She's not my wife yet. I can get away with this stuff

:eek: You assume she doesn't keep a scorecard, darling.

I like the idea of a nano iPhone, with fewer features... like a juke only done up right with Apple intuitiveness in the functions. Sized around the length of a 2nd gen nano but a little wider with an elongated screen. Think iPod touch but 2/3 the width.

[winterspan]

we've got 80% coverage für 3g! :D -> come to switzerland!:p

http://www.top-wetter.de/spezial/gletscher_hochalpen/matterhorn.jpg
that's the matterhorn, and yes, you even got 3G up there!!:D

With all the people talking about 3G coverage, I thought I'd go ahead and share a picture I made (and posted to this thread: http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=482409

note: the map is certainly NOT PERFECT. There were many elements on the original maps that had to be removed to overlay them together such as other services coverage areas with different colors, differing state and city label locations, etc. In the areas where extraneous text labels were removed on the Verizon coverage, I did the best I could to extrapolate the coverage boundaries based on the surrounding area. That being said, there is a small percentage of ambiguous areas, so I wouldn't necessarily rely on this map to insure you have 3G service in your little town -- it is only intended to be used for a quick comparison. To get a much more detailed map of your local overage area. please visit :

http://www.wireless.att.com/coverageviewer/for ATT Coverage Map
http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/CoverageLocatorController?requesttype=NEWREQUEST for Verizon Coverage Map


*if you didn't notice, there is not a third color representing overlap... in nearly all the cases, Verizon's coverage is a superset of AT&Ts AKA it covers everywhere AT&T does and more...
http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/2482/attvsvzw3gdt0.gif

[winterspan]

Heck, in two years we might see a CDMA iPhone for Verizon users, but maybe that's just me being hopeful. And if Verizon doesn't switch to GSM like I've heard.

Verizon is not really switching to "GSM", unless you mean that as "GSM track/family". They will be moving to LTE/HSOPA along with AT&T. In two years they will have begun the rollout of it on 700mhz to replace their CDMA service. I doubt Apple would create a CDMA iPhone in the meantime.. I bet they wait for the LTE rollout since then they can create an IPhone compatible with both Verizon and AT&T.

One thing I have no idea about is how Verizon is going to transition.. are they going to make dual-mode CDMA/LTE phones that drop back to CDMA/EV-DO outside of LTE coverage, or are they just going to build out a complete network as fast as possible and move everyone over? I assume they would NOT actually switch their current CDMA/EVDO network over to UMTS/HSPA?

[Tallest Skil]

My point was: Will Verizon be tossing us SIMs in the next couple of years?

[btnnaz]

i dont know how trustable this lady is but i called and asked why the iphone was currently not available and she said "we don't Know when that current model will be available again.

[Diode]

My point was: Will Verizon be tossing us SIMs in the next couple of years?

The 4G rollout by AT&T and Verizon wouldn't be compatible with current GSM technology to answer the question I think your trying to get at.

[sassenach74]

Just went to the o2 site (www.o2.co.uk) and it is down again (this is when you click on the online store section):

Thanks for visiting the O2 Online Shop
Due to extremely high demand, we're unable to process orders online at present.

For details about the iPhone, please visit http://www.o2.co.uk/iphone.

To find out more about our latest deals please call


0844 800 2200
Or visit o2.co.uk to find out more about our products and services


High demand at 01:35 on a monday morning???

Neil.

[Metal425]

Just went to the o2 site (www.o2.co.uk) and it is down again (this is when you click on the online store section):

Thanks for visiting the O2 Online Shop
Due to extremely high demand, we're unable to process orders online at present.

For details about the iPhone, please visit http://www.o2.co.uk/iphone.

To find out more about our latest deals please call


0844 800 2200
Or visit o2.co.uk to find out more about our products and services


High demand at 01:35 on a monday morning???

Neil.

I smell something...:p

[sananda]

I smell something...:p

the sweet smell of maintenance.

[sassenach74]

the sweet smell of maintenance.

So you think that is just a generic web page they put up, wouldn't they put a notice like 'Site down for maintenance, please come back soon' etc etc like most websites I come across do? Just tossing thoughts around.

Neil.

[sananda]

So you think that is just a generic web page they put up, wouldn't they put a notice like 'Site down for maintenance, please come back soon' etc etc like most websites I come across do? Just tossing thoughts around.

Neil.

they don't seem very accurate about what they say on their website. the other day it said "iphone is no longer available". anyway, most online stores are not like the apple store and so do not require going offline to add a new product.

[coolant113]

Apple... Please replace the camera in the next generation iPhone. I am tired of using a cellphone camera thats stuck on a shutter speed of 1/15th of a second. Also, who made the optics? Mattel? They seem to have plastic toys covered quite well, I didn't realize they made substandard plastic optics, too. Seeing everything from a blurred perspective might be interesting at times... but give me a break! ;)

I'm not completely trashing the camera on the iPhone, I have taken some decent photos with it at times. But I have also been disappointed more times than pleased. :cool:


Are you kidding me!!....i think the camera on my iPhone is amazing for a cell phone camera.. it take 20x better shots than my en-v does.. and alot better than almost every cell ophone camera:apple::apple:

[coolant113]

I smell something...:p


THIS IS AEWSOME!!!. they are probally putting the new iphone up there.. I Hope SOOOO!!..... I bet you dollars to donuts that the Apple site goes down for matience tomorrow and BOOM! there it will be the new iPhone!!... Pure Beauty that will change cell phone desing standard once again.. and blow everybodys minds away!!! :apple::apple:

[Compile 'em all]

Are you kidding me!!....i think the camera on my iPhone is amazing for a cell phone camera.. it take 20x better shots than my en-v does.. and alot better than almost every cell ophone camera:apple::apple:

Try a new sony ericsson phone then come and post here again.

[sananda]

o2 online shop is working again.

[megfilmworks]

Are you kidding me!!....i think the camera on my iPhone is amazing for a cell phone camera.. it take 20x better shots than my en-v does.. and alot better than almost every cell ophone camera:apple::apple:
Agreed. Despite it's limitations it is an incredible camera... just look at all the posts of pics taken by it. Besides if I want a serious picture I will use a serious camera, not a cell phone of any kind.

[winterspan]

Are you kidding me!!....i think the camera on my iPhone is amazing for a cell phone camera.. it take 20x better shots than my en-v does.. and alot better than almost every cell ophone camera:apple::apple:

Agreed. Despite it's limitations it is an incredible camera... just look at all the posts of pics taken by it. Besides if I want a serious picture I will use a serious camera, not a cell phone of any kind.

WHAT? Why do you post comments such as "a lot better than almost every cell phone camera" when you obviously don't know any better. I'm not saying you shouldn't state your opinion, but unless you have reviewed all the higher-end cellphones available or at least seen their pics, are you really qualified to say something like that? If you read reviews from actual tech journalists, the iPhone camera is CRAP compared to other devices in it's price range. I myself have used much better cameras on several phones. Most of the Nokia N-series including the N95 and N82 and many of the high-end Sonys (like the K850) take excellent pics, usually quite better than the iPhone...

Most people in America have not even seen high-quality, 5-megapixel cameras on cellphones. In Europe and especially in Japan/Korea/Singapore, there are excellent camera phones.

[g8bo]

mh... it seems like steve ist still sleeping :D

[hidehide]

WHAT? Why do you post comments such as "a lot better than almost every cell phone camera" when you obviously don't know any better. I'm not saying you shouldn't state your opinion, but unless you have reviewed all the higher-end cellphones available or at least seen their pics, are you really qualified to say something like that? If you read reviews from actual tech journalists, the iPhone camera is CRAP compared to other devices in it's price range. I myself have used much better cameras on several phones. Most of the Nokia N-series including the N95 and N82 and many of the high-end Sonys (like the K850) take excellent pics, usually quite better than the iPhone...

Most people in America have not even seen high-quality, 5-megapixel cameras on cellphones. In Europe and especially in Japan/Korea/Singapore, there are excellent camera phones.
I agree with you.. iPhone's camera is really bad..
I moved from Nokia N73 (3MP) to iPhone.. and iPhone camera sucks.. I cant even take picture of my notes, because it doesnt even have auto focus, no flash, and only 2MP

[OS X Dude]

UK 02 Store still has 16GB at £329 (http://shop.o2.co.uk/promo/iphonetariffs)

[megfilmworks]

Most people in America have not even seen high-quality, 5-megapixel cameras on cellphones. In Europe and especially in Japan/Korea/Singapore, there are excellent camera phones.Come on.... High quality and cellphone cameras are two terms that do not go together.
Anyone who takes pics with a cellphone will get a limited inferior product. Apple has done a great job with the iPhone camera and has improved it with software upgrades. I would assume the next gen will be even better.
Most iPhone owners are upscale and probably own a high level digital SLR for real pics.

[OS X Dude]

Ironically, everyone was saying EDGE was fine for them and that they didnt need 3G if it would sacrifice battery life. It clearly still will diminish battery life quickly and is still primarily situated in metro regions and yet there is all of this hoopla. So I am not grumpy at all, just adding a little realism to all the sensationalism taking place.

But thanks for repeating my sentiment in a more positive manner. kinda makes you redundant too.

Yeah - and the fact that most people will probably leave 3G turned off anyway to save battery means they have to trudge through menus to get to 3G. I do that for Wi-Fi (turn it on when needed) which is faster anyway and I always usually have unlocked access points around me....

so i guess i've been enjoying the 3G iPhone experience from that point of view :)

[winterspan]

Come on.... High quality and cellphone cameras are two terms that do not go together.
Anyone who takes pics with a cellphone will get a limited inferior product. Apple has done a great job with the iPhone camera and has improved it with software upgrades. I would assume the next gen will be even better.
Most iPhone owners are upscale and probably own a high level digital SLR for real pics.

1) I didn't say "high quality camera". I'm using high-quality as a relative term.. high-quality FOR CELL PHONES.

2) "Apple has done a great job with the iPhone camera"? that statement is fanboy crap! Have you actually seen or read any comparisons from reviewers? Have you ever used or seen the pictures from a Nokia N-series or high-end Sony Ericson? Or just about any FOMA/I-Mode phone sold in Japan?

3) No phone camera will ever rival an DSLR or even a good point-and-shoot, but who carries their Nikon D40 around town in their pocket? It's not unreasonable at all to expect to be able to just carry around a cellphone instead of needing a compact point and shoot for random pics while you are out.

[megfilmworks]

It's not unreasonable at all to expect to be able to just carry around a cellphone instead of needing a compact point and shoot for random pics while you are out.That's depressing. Is that what we have to look forward to? Family vacations and history documented by cellphone cams with
plastic optics the size of a nail head?
I am very familiar with the competition. I would say that the vast majority of
iPhone users love there little camera and the differences between one toy camera
and another is not at all relevant.
That's not "fanboy" rhetoric, it is just good business sense.

[g8bo]

That's depressing. Is that what we have to look forward to? Family vacations and history documented by cellphone cams with
plastic optics the size of a nail head?
I am very familiar with the competition. I would say that the vast majority of
iPhone users love there little camera and the differences between one toy camera
and another is not at all relevant.
That's not "fanboy" rhetoric, it is just good business sense.

mhh.. haven't got such tiny nails... :rolleyes: :D

oh man.. i owned a sony ericsson k850i (5MP, sold to make place for the 3G iphone xD ) and the pix taken by the iphone doesn't seem so bad to me (for a mobile phone. i've got a Canon EOS 5D so i know what it's possible to do with a digital device in the upper level^^)..

but who's going to buy the iphone because of its camera? nobody. but i still hope there will be a better camera (musn't be a 3.2mp if they use the same lense and sensor-size).. replacing the plastic lense with glas (greener apple: less plastic), should match^^

[winterspan]

That's depressing. Is that what we have to look forward to? Family vacations and history documented by cellphone cams with
plastic optics the size of a nail head?
I am very familiar with the competition. I would say that the vast majority of
iPhone users love there little camera and the differences between one toy camera
and another is not at all relevant.
That's not "fanboy" rhetoric, it is just good business sense.

First of all, I'm not talking about family vacations or other pics you will want to have for life. I'm talking about random photos on the way to work, at house parties, restaurants, walking down the street, etc. And the optics have the capability of getting much better if people spend the money on nice phones.

And don't start changing your statements. The only thing I said was "fanboy rhetoric" was the quote: "Apple has done a great job with the iPhone camera". Again, for a high-end, modern smartphone that originally retailed for $600, I don't think they did a "great job" .. the camera is pretty crappy, with a sub-par sensor and major missing features.

[ibwb]

While it would be nice to have a better camera on the iPhone, you're not going to see much better results without a flash and a better lens, and therein lies the problem. The iPhone has a big, bright display, which seriously increases its power consumption. To allow for decent battery life, Apple used very little space for electronics and no internal frame to allow a very large battery.

So to include anything more than a tiny camera, you'd need to either reduce the battery size (and life) or make the whole unit larger. Some of you might like to see a larger iPhone with a better camera, but that preference is not universal.

[g8bo]

While it would be nice to have a better camera on the iPhone, you're not going to see much better results without a flash and a better lens, and therein lies the problem. The iPhone has a big, bright display, which seriously increases its power consumption. To allow for decent battery life, Apple used very little space for electronics and no internal frame to allow a very large battery.

So to include anything more than a tiny camera, you'd need to either reduce the battery size (and life) or make the whole unit larger. Some of you might like to see a larger iPhone with a better camera, but that preference is not universal.


if would be nice if they made an improvement without excessing space, but...

... i'll buy it in each case^^





mh... reading the article about that american guy who couldn't buy an iphone from apple with cash made me think if they're going only to accept credit cards in switzerland? :confused:

if so, i have to get one xD

[Compile 'em all]

Come on.... High quality and cellphone cameras are two terms that do not go together.
Anyone who takes pics with a cellphone will get a limited inferior product. Apple has done a great job with the iPhone camera and has improved it with software upgrades. I would assume the next gen will be even better.
Most iPhone owners are upscale and probably own a high level digital SLR for real pics.

Right. And they carry their SLR with them everywhere they go in their pockets :rolleyes:. No. Not everyone with an iPhone has an SLR nor everyone with a blackberry has one. A camera in a phone has proven to be important enough of a feature that Apple HAD to include it in the iPhone. And yeah, there are many phones with way better cams than that in the iPhone.

Re-read winterspan's post for a proper response.

[BongoBanger]

That's depressing. Is that what we have to look forward to? Family vacations and history documented by cellphone cams with
plastic optics the size of a nail head?
I am very familiar with the competition. I would say that the vast majority of
iPhone users love there little camera and the differences between one toy camera
and another is not at all relevant.
That's not "fanboy" rhetoric, it is just good business sense.

Rubbish. People used to carry around disposable Kodak cameras rather than state of the art Canons or Nikons for their holiday snaps. A reasonably decent camera is plenty for most people and 3.2Mp to 5Mp with video seems to be the sweet spot.

[freediverdude]

Just take a look at how much of a brick the nokia n95 is, and then you'll see kind of how thick and big they would have to make the iphone if they stuck the carl zeiss lens and all that in there. Apple is trying to make the best compromise between reasonably good function and form factor.

[BongoBanger]

Just take a look at how much of a brick the nokia n95 is, and then you'll see kind of how thick and big they would have to make the iphone if they stuck the carl zeiss lens and all that in there.

Two points:

1) The N95 isn't a brick. It's thicker but shorter and narrower than the iPhone.
2) There are other 5mp camera phones out there which are almost as slim as the iPhone. See Samsung (amongst others for details).

So your argument fails.

Apple is trying to make the best compromise between reasonably good function and form factor.

Rubbish for the reasons outlined above..

[Project]

Two points:

1) The N95 isn't a brick. It's thicker but shorter and narrower than the iPhone.
2) There are other 5mp camera phones out there which are almost as slim as the iPhone. See Samsung (amongst others for details).

So your argument fails.



Rubbish for the reasons outlined above..

The N95 does feel brick-like. It's not just "thicker".. it's twice as thick as the iPhone. In respect to volume its 30% bigger.

[freediverdude]

Sorry, but yes the n95 IS a brick. Anybody who even looks at it can tell you that. But I understand that nokia decided to just throw every possible feature known to god and man into it, so that's what they ended up with. The lens alone would take up a huge portion of the back of the iphone, and might be thicker than the iphone itself, from the looks of it.

Now I don't know the Samsung 5mp camera phone, maybe that's a different story. But I bet it isn't the fancy lens that the n95 has, and therefore not as good a camera.

[BongoBanger]

The N95 does feel brick-like. It's not just "thicker".. it's twice as thick as the iPhone. In respect to volume its 30% bigger.

True, however to describe a phone that is only 2cm thick as 'brick like' is absurd.

As pointed out, there are plenty of 13-15mm thick phones with 3.2 to 5mp cameras which totally debunks the argument that Apple were trying to compromise between form and function with the iPhone's camera.

Which was rather the point, was it not?

[Stephen123]

All the reviews I've seen say they were surprised by how good the camera is.

I'm not saying there aren't better cell-phone cameras. But the reviewers I've read ALL praised the image quality.

The pixel resolution is unusually low, the optics are unusually good. This tradeoff produces surprisingly good pictures without adding the cost of a premium cellphone camera. The iPhone is NOT trying to distinguish itself with camera quality and doesn't include the added expense that would entail. Within that context, it takes surprisingly good pictures because of the unusually good optics for such a cheap camera.

[nanolover]

...not to be a conspiracy theorist, but if this was planned to coincide on the same day as rim announced their new phone, it was a brilliant move by apple's 'stealth marketing'...at the moment, all the hype is focused on apple when it should be rim's day in the spotlight...

[trevelyn]

Come on.... High quality and cellphone cameras are two terms that do not go together.
Anyone who takes pics with a cellphone will get a limited inferior product. Apple has done a great job with the iPhone camera and has improved it with software upgrades. I would assume the next gen will be even better.
Most iPhone owners are upscale and probably own a high level digital SLR for real pics.

I did not wish to start a war and highjack this thread! haha. But for the sake of settling my original argument, and that I would very much indeed like to see an improvement over the existing iPhone camera. Here is a small comparison of the iPhone camera and my old 4 year old Sony Ericsson W31S AU by KDDI phone. Which is a better photo?

iPhone pic:
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/phone%20pics/IMG_0705.jpg

W31S pic:
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/phone%20pics/PAP_0185.jpg

iPhone pic:
is that a turd on the wall? or a ladybug? no one will ever know except me and forensic scientists.
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/phone%20pics/IMG_0537.jpg

W31S pic:
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/phone%20pics/PAP_0176.jpg


Now, my point for this is not bashing the iPhone camera. I am merely stating that I would very much like to see a better quality camera in the iphone. My W31S battery life lasts longer than the iPhone, but it is also just a bit thicker, too. I am certain Apple could implement better camera technology into the iphone and still have decent battery life.

Sometimes it's hit and miss with all cellphone cameras. These two pictures from both cameras are decent:

iPhone:
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/phone%20pics/IMG_0475.jpg

W31S:
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/phone%20pics/PAP_0053.jpg

However, I do love my iPhone to pieces. ;) :apple:

[dstrauss]

Back to topic -

1:00pm central and still no iPhone's available on Apple website - if you were announcing a new phone soon, would you want to deal with all those Mother's Day returns so quickly? Just a thought...

[benmrii]

Calling the current iPhone's camera a good one in comparison to other cellphones is more than a little off. 5 megapixel cellphone cameras have been produced for about four years. The iPhone's current camera is way behind.

The vast majority of reviews have stated that the camera was sub-par. (Actually every since one I've ever read has, I just leave it open that there may be a few that say otherwise that I haven't seen.) The pictures above, once again, prove that the camera is sub-par to a cellphone's camera that is over 3 years old and on its original release, before any discount, cost under $250. Let it go. I know this is a rumor site, and I know we love Apple, but calling this a good cellphone camera in relation to dozens of others at the same and much lower price points is incorrect.

On the actual topic... more than 48 hours later and still no iPhones available. This week is looking more and more possible.

[ibwb]

True, however to describe a phone that is only 2cm thick as 'brick like' is absurd.

As pointed out, there are plenty of 13-15mm thick phones with 3.2 to 5mp cameras which totally debunks the argument that Apple were trying to compromise between form and function with the iPhone's camera.

Which was rather the point, was it not?

I'm not sure what you've debunked, unless you have a phone the same size as the iPhone or smaller, with the same screen size or larger, with a screen as bright or brighter, and with battery life the same or longer. Unless you can put all of those things together, it's quite reasonable to suggest that the iPhone's camera is indeed a compromise.

[BongoBanger]

I'm not sure what you've debunked, unless you have a phone the same size as the iPhone or smaller, with the same screen size or larger, with a screen as bright or brighter, and with battery life the same or longer. Unless you can put all of those things together, it's quite reasonable to suggest that the iPhone's camera is indeed a compromise.

Err... no. The suggestion was that the iPhone's form was the reason why it had a 2mp camera. This clearly not the case.

[PowerFullMac]

Err... no. The suggestion was that the iPhone's form was the reason why it had a 2mp camera. This clearly not the case.

I think the reason for the no high spec camera in the iPhone is because its only there because it would be impossible to sell a expensive smartphone without one these days.

[nyquist11]

. 5 megapixel cellphone cameras have been produced for about four years.

Are you sure that they have been around for 4 years... couls you mean in the uk and asia; I don't remember seeing them for that long.:confused:

[benmrii]

Are you sure that they have been around for 4 years... couls you mean in the uk and asia; I don't remember seeing them for that long.:confused:

I worked for Samsung in '04 and we had 5 megapixel cameras. They weren't available through the major carriers in the US but they were in Asia.

[winterspan]

Calling the current iPhone's camera a good one in comparison to other cellphones is more than a little off. 5 megapixel cellphone cameras have been produced for about four years. The iPhone's current camera is way behind.

The vast majority of reviews have stated that the camera was sub-par. (Actually every since one I've ever read has, I just leave it open that there may be a few that say otherwise that I haven't seen.) The pictures above, once again, prove that the camera is sub-par to a cellphone's camera that is over 3 years old and on its original release, before any discount, cost under $250. Let it go. I know this is a rumor site, and I know we love Apple, but calling this a good cellphone camera in relation to dozens of others at the same and much lower price points is incorrect.

I did not wish to start a war and highjack this thread! haha. But for the sake of settling my original argument, and that I would very much indeed like to see an improvement over the existing iPhone camera. Here is a small comparison of the iPhone camera and my old 4 year old Sony Ericsson W31S AU by KDDI phone. Which is a better photo?
*SNIP*

Now, my point for this is not bashing the iPhone camera. I am merely stating that I would very much like to see a better quality camera in the iphone. My W31S battery life lasts longer than the iPhone, but it is also just a bit thicker, too. I am certain Apple could implement better camera technology into the iphone and still have decent battery life. However, I do love my iPhone to pieces. ;) :apple:

Right. And they carry their SLR with them everywhere they go in their pockets :rolleyes:. No. Not everyone with an iPhone has an SLR nor everyone with a blackberry has one. A camera in a phone has proven to be important enough of a feature that Apple HAD to include it in the iPhone. And yeah, there are many phones with way better cams than that in the iPhone. Re-read winterspan's post for a proper response.

Rubbish. People used to carry around disposable Kodak cameras rather than state of the art Canons or Nikons for their holiday snaps. A reasonably decent camera is plenty for most people and 3.2Mp to 5Mp with video seems to be the sweet spot.


Thank you guys for contributing more info and your opinions. I was beginning to be the only 'heretic' that didn't worship the iPhone's camera and believe Apple can do better for such an expensive device. :eek: I don't buy the argument about form factor either. Granted, the iPhone is indeed quite thin, and also has to contend with a large cache of flash memory and large battery, but I guarantee Apple could and should have done better. I'm not talking about a 20X zoom lens with a APS-C sensor. But 2 megapixels, no flash, no zoom, no autofocus, ? Surely they can do better. Optics are always going to be small and cheap and take mediocre shots, but there are plenty of very small and thin Japanese/Korean phones that take excellent pictures.

On a side note, does anyone remember that lens technology development that replaced a mechanical zoom lens with a flexible-membrane system that was able to act as a zoom lens by deforming the transparent water-filled membrane and thus changing the refraction? That kind of thing would be awesome in an iPhone.. I bet Apple surprises us with something clever like that!


I think the reason for the no high spec camera in the iPhone is because its only there because it would be impossible to sell a expensive smartphone without one these days.

Indeed, THAT is the problem. Obviously Apple doesn't consider the camera to be important. They didn't even include auto-focus or a rudimentary flash capability, not to mention absolutely zero video recording support. I hope they change this attitude. This is an important feature for many people, especially outside the United States where people are used to getting very high-end Nokia, Sony Ericsson, et al camera/media phones ($500-$700) for FREE on contact.. and Even more so in the future as phone cameras get better and people quit using point-and-shoots for quick, unimportant photos.


Are you sure that they have been around for 4 years... couls you mean in the uk and asia; I don't remember seeing them for that long.:confused:

Europe and ESPECIALLY Japan/Korea/Singapore/Taiwan have had much better cell phone for the last 5 years than anything in the United States, especially in regards to camera quality.

[trevelyn]

Calling the current iPhone's camera a good one in comparison to other cellphones is more than a little off. 5 megapixel cellphone cameras have been produced for about four years. The iPhone's current camera is way behind.

Keep in mind that the photos taken with that Japanese camera is also a 2 megapixel camera.

Most people think that the more mega pixels a camera has the better the camera it must be. This is entirely untrue. Most people that buy point and shoot cameras or use cellphone cameras do not really need much over 2-5 mega pixels. Anything above that is just a gimmick for the most part. Kinda reminds me of those old crappy station wagons from the 80s. The standard model had 4 wheels, blue carpet upholstery and genuine imitation leather dash for $6,000 brand new. But if you want the "upgrade". get the model up from it for only $7499.99. It comes with 4 wheels, blue carpet upholstery, genuine imitation leather dash and a cool emblem of some deer glued to the passenger side dash.

So same thing can really be said about all this hype about cellphones having 5-10 mega pixel cameras in them. It's not the amount of pixels that matters, but the size of each of them on the CCD and the quality of the sensor. Just because a sensor thats the size of a nail head thats 8 mega pixels doesn't mean it's any good. :p

[redgaz26]

maybe apple underestimated the cameras importance??????
its is a terrible camera and for folks who care about such things could be the deal breaker but for my self and loads of others I'm not really bothered if it has 2, 3 or 5 million pixels...................but
if you could shoot video and directly upload it to youtube or even your .mac then that would be cool!!!

[trevelyn]

On a side note, does anyone remember that lens technology development that replaced a mechanical zoom lens with a flexible-membrane system that was able to act as a zoom lens by deforming the transparent water-filled membrane and thus changing the refraction? That kind of thing would be awesome in an iPhone.. I bet Apple surprises us with something clever like that!


Hmm... I don't think that would fit very well in the keynote. :p

http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/jobs-keynote.jpg

[BongoBanger]

So same thing can really be said about all this hype about cellphones having 5-10 mega pixel cameras in them. It's not the amount of pixels that matters, but the size of each of them on the CCD and the quality of the sensor. Just because a sensor thats the size of a nail head thats 8 mega pixels doesn't mean it's any good. :p

Well, yes, but the sweet spot is generally put at about 3-5mp as Mossberg's article points out:

http://www.smartmoney.com/mossberg/index.cfm?story=november2004

2mp isn't enough for decent image quality which is why most camera phones are at least 3.2mp these days. Most of them have superior optics as well - such as the N Series Carl Zeiss lenses.

The iPhone's camera is an afterthought. It's not a primary feature as it is on other devices.

[LeMaestro]

I think that this thread has been hijacked. I for one would appreciate having it back on topic. You guys could start a thread (as if there aren't any) on Apple's camera and cell phone cameras.

[BongoBanger]

Fair enough, I'm sure one of the mods will split it out if necessary.

Oh, and since you're new I should point out that hijacking happens a lot.

In fact it's normal. :D

[PowerFullMac]

Fair enough, I'm sure one of the mods will split it out if necessary.

Oh, and since you're new I should point out that hijacking happens a lot.

In fact it's normal. :D

Anyway, on to the topic of better-resolution screens :rolleyes:;)

[TheRiseofTheFal]

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/ptech/05/12/iphone.sold.out.ap/index.html

[trevelyn]

Fair enough, I'm sure one of the mods will split it out if necessary.

Oh, and since you're new I should point out that hijacking happens a lot.

In fact it's normal. :D

Hah! Next time I have the urge to rant about a specific thing while visiting a posting that has nothing to do about what I have in mind, I'll start my own thread from now on. :D

And to go back on topic... C'mon new gen iPhone! I dropped mine today and scratched the screen a bit. It's time to buy a new one. Fortunately, I do have a bit of patience. I think I can wait another 30 days.

[winterspan]

Keep in mind that the photos taken with that Japanese camera is also a 2 megapixel camera.

Most people think that the more mega pixels a camera has the better the camera it must be. This is entirely untrue. Most people that buy point and shoot cameras or use cellphone cameras do not really need much over 2-5 mega pixels. Anything above that is just a gimmick for the most part. Kinda reminds me of those old crappy station wagons from the 80s. The standard model had 4 wheels, blue carpet upholstery and genuine imitation leather dash for $6,000 brand new. But if you want the "upgrade". get the model up from it for only $7499.99. It comes with 4 wheels, blue carpet upholstery, genuine imitation leather dash and a cool emblem of some deer glued to the passenger side dash.

So same thing can really be said about all this hype about cellphones having 5-10 mega pixel cameras in them. It's not the amount of pixels that matters, but the size of each of them on the CCD and the quality of the sensor. Just because a sensor thats the size of a nail head thats 8 mega pixels doesn't mean it's any good. :p

Yes, that is true, but I guess everyone just assumes that a cellphone with a 5 megapixel camera most likely will have a camera with better optics/lens, digital processing, firmware, etc. It's probably best to just say "higher quality" or "better" camera. I mean, you can go much deeper if you want, to discussing sensor size, sensor type and architecture, optics system, lens, image processing DSPs, firmware, etc.

[NewtypeCJ]

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/ptech/05/12/iphone.sold.out.ap/index.html

This is interesting. Perhaps the fact that Apple PR commented at all means there won't be an announcement tomorrow.

[louden]

This is interesting. Perhaps the fact that Apple PR commented at all means there won't be an announcement tomorrow.

I seriously doubt Apple is dumb enough to have a drought of iPhone sales at ANY time during this year. Sales of V1 iPhone have not spiked in recent weeks (have they?) so I'm sure they've had plenty of information to accurately forecast demand for the V1 models before V2 comes out.

Anything less than 10 million sales in 2008 is egg on Steve's face. He may need that extra month of 3G to hit that target and he's pushing them out the door ASAP. I can see him in his santa cap now, holding the 10 millionth iPhone well before the last day of the year.

Can you imagine him telling shareholders "Well, the reason we didn't hit 10 million is because we ran out of stock of the old model before the new one came out! No, there was no supply problem, no spike in demand, no problem with distribution. Just an estimate error on a spreadsheet!" He'd be crucified by the market!

Announce them tomorrow, and I'll be at the Apple store at 9:00! As long as they have BT modem support and my existing data contract transfers over.

[louden]

THIS IS AEWSOME!!!. they are probally putting the new iphone up there.. I Hope SOOOO!!..... I bet you dollars to donuts that the Apple site goes down for matience tomorrow and BOOM! there it will be the new iPhone!!... Pure Beauty that will change cell phone desing standard once again.. and blow everybodys minds away!!! :apple::apple:

I just hope it doesn't scratch like the old iPods...

[megfilmworks]

Mega pixels are for suckers. Unless you are blowing up to poster size, 2-3 is all you need. Optics are what make the difference and cell phones will never have a chance against even pocket camera optics let alone SLRs.
But if you look at the posts on this sight of pics taken with the iPhone they are very good. I have taken quite a few high quality shots with the iPhone camera even before the software upgrade. There are tricks and you need great light but I am very happy with the camera. It was a great placement of quality vs economy of use.
Most people who use cell phone cams don't care about quality and if they do they use a better camera.
It's a moot point.

[BongoBanger]

Most people who use cell phone cams don't care about quality and if they do they use a better camera.
It's a moot point.

*Sigh*

Not really since most of the major manufacturers recognize that a 3.2 to 5 Mp camera with flash and video recording functionality is expected these days. Like I said, it's the sweet spot that counts.

[freediverdude]

Well all I can is relate my experience. I have an old Fuji Finepix 2650 digital point and shoot camera from 3-4 years ago. It's a 2 megapixel camera. I only use it on the 1 megapixel setting. The pictures turn out so clear that people comment. The pictures taken on that camera on 1 mp are better than the 2mp iphone pictures- I can clearly see the difference over many pictures.

But this is to be expected, it's a phone camera. Clearly megapixels are not the whole story of how good the picture is. I don't see the need for more megapixels. If they want to increase the quality of the camera on the iphone, I think they would have to introduce better optics, which would require putting in something similar to what is on the n95, and make the iphone quite a bit thicker probably. Is it worth it? Probably not to many people.

[elbirth]

Just throwing out another possibility here since this thread seems to be slacking up and not going rumor crazy so far today ;)

Several people have made comments that despite the iPhone shortage, there's still a lot of things pointing to a June release, such as the block of time where AT&T employees can't take vacation, the SDK release, etc. What if we take a slightly different look at those "indicators"?

First of all, it's been said before and I tend to agree that it's entirely possible that the updated iPhone could come out before the 2.0 software update and just have, say, a 1.1.5 firmware update that the current versions won't get since it'll enable 3G, and possibly add a GPS button if that gets in there. That alone could be feasible for a May release.

As for the time block of no vacations for AT&T employees? All the memo stated was that it was for an "exciting Summer Promotional Launch". We all assume this to be the iPhone since we know an updated version is coming out... but this could instead potentially be a reference to some entirely new product altogether, such as a touchscreen tablet or whatever else they might be cooking up.

So basically, there's nothing saying they HAVE to wait until that time frame in June to release the new iPhone, as the "evidence" is being read how some of us want it to be read, instead of realizing that it's not necessarily talking about the iPhone.

[freediverdude]

Yes getting back to the topic, I can see Apple maybe going ahead and announcing the next iphone this week, and start taking preorders, with it coming out during the AT&T no-vacation period. I just can't see them going a whole month saying "sorry, it's unavailable".

I'm wondering if there really is a product shortage, either they can't get them from the manufacturer for some reason right now (possibly due to the manufacturer switching their lines over to produce the new iphone), or releasing it in many places worldwide is causing a big shortage in supply.

Or another thought, maybe both reasons- maybe they think they need sooo many of the new iphones for a worldwide product launch, that they've told the manufacturer "quit producing the old one, use every available resource to produce as many new ones as possible"?

[elcid]

It is going to have to be soon. I can't imagine Apple having no stock for a whole month. Maybe this will push them to announce soon, as it has to go through FCC anyways to get approved. Their sales would drop anyways, but make the news story about the new phone, not the lack of old ones.

[louden]

Well, I'm surprised. If Apple doesn't restock their current 1G phones, I have to say the release of the 2G iPhone is imminent.

Maybe their switching up their release day? Maybe something went wrong in the supply chain for the release of the new iPhone?

[D4F]

When I ordered my 3 iPhones on May 9 it was shown on screen that shipping date is 16-19th of May.
Today I checked the order page and they were already shipped with a delivery date of May 15th so they can't be that crazy out of stock.
I was also at the apple store in Ft Lauderdale yesterday and they had no signs of new iPhone and they told me they get the current ones every 2-3 days. Indeed there is a shortage but I was told to check tomorrow morning as they are supposed to have at least a dozen on stock.

[Klaxons2012]

It looks like i'm about to have an orphaned iPhone soon. :D

[LadyC]

I'd love to see it come out sooner rather than later. Or at least, allow new customers to sign up with the stipulation that they will wait for the new iPhone to ship. My contract with T-Mobile will be officially ended on the 19th (I'm on a Family plan with my sister and brother-in-law, so they have a say in when we cancel for good..trying to talk them into waiting another month) so I'd like to at least be able to sign up, get my number transferred, get a new SIM card, etc, before the phone is released if possible. Then, presumably, you could activate the iPhone as a current customer rather than a new one. I know I could just switch to AT&T on my own and just buy an iPhone when it comes out, but I wonder how they'd view my eligibility for the subsidization in that case, even if I declined a new phone at the start of my contract.

[gkarris]

I know I could just switch to AT&T on my own and just buy an iPhone when it comes out, but I wonder how they'd view my eligibility for the subsidization in that case, even if I declined a new phone at the start of my contract.

It'll be like everyone else's subsidies. When you get a new phone, you're not eligible for another subsidy until a couple of years. You'll be paying full price for an iPhone until then.

Why not just get one as a new customer?

[woodekm]

It'll be like everyone else's subsidies. When you get a new phone, you're not eligible for another subsidy until a couple of years. You'll be paying full price for an iPhone until then.

Why not just get one as a new customer?

Im hoping that if I get the new version iPhone, I'll have to sign up for two years to get the "cheaper" price (damn, Im Sooo close to 1 year with my current iPhone- not that it matters).

Dont tell me I have to pay full price (Which could be $$ ?? !!) because Im currently in contract. Thats why I left verizon.

[LadyC]

It'll be like everyone else's subsidies. When you get a new phone, you're not eligible for another subsidy until a couple of years. You'll be paying full price for an iPhone until then.

Why not just get one as a new customer?


I hope to do just that - it just depends on my family and when we cancel the T-Mobile contract. If they both want to cancel on the 19th, I'd have to sign up for a new service. I want to go to AT&T, but as far as we know right NOW, the new iPhone won't be available yet. So I feel sort of stuck. That's why I'd probably have to sign up with AT&T and see if they'll be nice enough to subsidize my phone purchase when the iPhone does go on the market again, or even better, do the pre-order thing.

[El Magnificante]

When was the last time Apple let a popular product go "unavailable" with nothing to replace it for a month?

[megfilmworks]

*Sigh*

Not really since most of the major manufacturers recognize that a 3.2 to 5 Mp camera with flash and video recording functionality is expected these days. Like I said, it's the sweet spot that counts.I agree that is a sweet spot. I think the iPhone 2 will have that and a little surprise as well.

[kgeier82]

When was the last time Apple let a popular product go "unavailable" with nothing to replace it for a month?

several years ago with the Imacs from what i can remember, and what i read.

that was also planned. :cool: One thing is for sure in this thread, Apple KNOWS whats going on. Whether it be supply shortage, new product annoucement, whatever, they are 100% away of whats going down.

I think they are just waiting to jerk our chains, like always. Im very confident we will see it at least 2 weeks before WWDC.

think about this. Apple wants to release it. They want to create a scenario where purchases already made cannot simply be exchanged for the new unit, returns are a hassle.

Mark my words, 14 days from the first "Apple shortage day (not O2, not ATT, not xyz), we will see V2

i still hope its now :) i have a crummy LG Shine to hold me over, BLAH

[btnnaz]

LOOK!!!!!! I was on att's website and looked at the iphone and noticed the 3g symbol next to the iphone and i quickly took a screenshot. Then i pushed refresh and it was gone really weird:confused::confused::confused:

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii203/btnnaz/Picture4.png

[Play Ultimate]

LOOK!!!!!! I was on att's website and looked at the iphone and noticed the 3g symbol next to the iphone and i quickly took a screenshot. Then i pushed refresh and it was gone really weird:confused::confused::confused:

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii203/btnnaz/Picture4.png

I scream, "Bogus" There is no way a new iPhone will remain only 8GB.

[elbirth]

I scream, "Bogus" There is no way a new iPhone will remain only 8GB.

While I agree that the next generation iPhone will likely drop the 8GB model, the screenshot is an obvious photoshop anyway. Look at the AT&T site's list of phones and notice the positioning of the 3G animated gif. Now look at the positioning of it in the screenshot.

Some people truly have too much spare time and have nothing better to do than try to screw around with others

[louden]

Well, logic told me that Apple would have scheduled the release of the new iPhone as soon as the current supply chain dried up - which it looks like it already has. Yet there's no new iPhone, so my logic is out the window.

If you think about it - there's a few important questions that would need to be answered for V2 IPhone customers and Apple just can't release the new iPhone without answering these questions and without cooperation from AT&T:

If you're in an existing AT&T iPhone contract, can you just move the SIM over?
If you're in an existing AT&T iPhone contract, will that same contract give you access to 3G?

They need a formal announcement to touch on these issues and that would be the WWDC, so I now think we'll need to wait.

It must be part of Apple's strategy to dry up the supply chain. Hopefully we'll get an explanation on our around day 1 of the WWDC. If they are waiting, Apple must be pretty confident they can push out enough in 7 months to hit their 10 million.

[louden]

I'm sure it would also be very cool in Apple's eyes to have a "world-wide" launch of the V2 iPhone. I don't think that's ever been done before, and I'm sure Apple would love to be able to say "Hey - we just sold one million (two million?) iPhones over the weekend..."

Just pulling off a launch like that would be unprecedented. It could mean it would be the highest selling product launch ever - More than any video game, movie, album, gadget, car, talking teddy bear...

Can you imagine the staggering significance of a $1 billion dollar weekend?

[freediverdude]

That's what I'm thinking, is they may be having a worldwide launch, or a bunch of launches in fast succession within a month or two in all these countries. In that case, they would probably need a few million units shipping right away.

This would be not unlike the game console launches, where because of demand, they have to think seriously about the number of units able to be produced, and allocating them among the different parts of the world.

[btnnaz]

go to apple store website. Click iphone then click. Window->Activity.

Notice lots of image files and others double click them and they will open.

Scroll Down some more

There is one that says this: http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/violator_new_iphone.gif

But when u double click it it comes up a blank image. Strange- "New iPhone"

[xhambonex]

go to apple store website. Click iphone then click. Window->Activity.

Notice lots of image files and others double click them and they will open.

Scroll Down some more

There is one that says this: http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/violator_new_iphone.gif

But when u double click it it comes up a blank image. Strange- "New iPhone"

At 76 bytes the link is too small to be a photo, their iphone pic is 18.8K. It is strange to say "new iphone" and I don't know much about this kind of stuff, but maybe that was just left over as text somewhere when the iphone was new last year, or possibly, space designated for the new phone. I don't know, but interesting you stumbled upon that.

[winterspan]

Hmm... I don't think that would fit very well in the keynote. :p

http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w265/llamabearduck/jobs-keynote.jpg

:)

[winterspan]

go to apple store website. Click iphone then click. Window->Activity.

Notice lots of image files and others double click them and they will open.

Scroll Down some more

There is one that says this: http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/violator_new_iphone.gif

But when u double click it it comes up a blank image. Strange- "New iPhone"


check out the HTML --- I cleaned it up a bit and took out some unimportant tags so you can see it better. If you do a "select all" on the page, you can see a blank square image that gets highlighted up above the "16GB" picture. That is the one with "new iphone" in it's name. What do you guys think the "violator" word refers to? I haven't been able to find it anywhere else in the code on the apple store?

<div class="promo_specs">
<div class="promo_option">
<h3><img src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/iphone_title_8gb.gif"></h3>
<p class="availability">Ships: Currently Unavailable</p>
<p class="price">$399.00</p>
<div class="prod_btns"></div>
</div>

<div class="promo_option">
<div id="violator_new"><img src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/violator_new_iphone.gif"/></div>
<h3><img src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/7/248/2041/1424/store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/iphone_title_16gb.gif" width="44" alt="Image" height="14" /></h3>
<p class="availability">Ships: Currently Unavailable</p>
<p class="price">$499.00</p>
<div class="prod_btns"></div>
</div>

</div>

[macwall]

There's no way this is going to be nearly as bad the Wii shortage.

[themiracle]

you can see a blank square image that gets highlighted up above the "16GB" picture

I'm guessing it's just left over from the launch of the 16gb phone. I tried to look up some internet archives on it, but I couldn't find one from that time period.

[LeviG]

Sorry haven't read everything.

All the people going no way would apple have no iphone for 30 days etc are clearly forgetting a few simple aspects of apple sales and marketting strategy. See my reasoning below.
1) 30 day return policy - no iphone v1 for 30 days means a) no returns b) potential second purchase from stupid rich people.
2) All the free publicity they're getting from tech mags, blogs etc
3) The 'leaked' specs, images, parts etc for the last month or so - usual tool up time is about a month or two.
4) WWDC is coming soon :)

[chuckiej]

Sorry haven't read everything.

All the people going no way would apple have no iphone for 30 days etc are clearly forgetting a few simple aspects of apple sales and marketting strategy. See my reasoning below.
1) 30 day return policy - no iphone v1 for 30 days means a) no returns b) potential second purchase from stupid rich people.
2) All the free publicity they're getting from tech mags, blogs etc
3) The 'leaked' specs, images, parts etc for the last month or so - usual tool up time is about a month or two.
4) WWDC is coming soon :)

I don't completely buy your reasoning. For instance, if you think MacWorld is going to publish an article every week for the next month saying "Wow, Apple is still out of iPhones" you are very wrong.

1a makes sense but
1b I assume you mean the "stupid rich people" bought one just before this instead of watching this site and they will have to buy a new one to get 3G?

Apple has known for a while how popular the iPhone really is. They must have attempted to plan this shortage to happen right before WWDC. Somebody messed up royally in their planning! Can they really afford to wait a month to fix this?

[LeviG]

I don't completely buy your reasoning. For instance, if you think MacWorld is going to publish an article every week for the next month saying "Wow, Apple is still out of iPhones" you are very wrong.

It only takes one article to make people aware of something from apple (especially techie types) and theres more than MacWorld - in the uk, you have stuff/t3 magazine for example, both of which have a 'rumours' page or a blog which has apple bits.


1a makes sense but
1b I assume you mean the "stupid rich people" bought one just before this instead of watching this site and they will have to buy a new one to get 3G?

Apple has known for a while how popular the iPhone really is. They must have attempted to plan this shortage to happen right before WWDC. Somebody messed up royally in their planning! Can they really afford to wait a month to fix this?
Yes Apple would lose a lot of money if they had an influx of returned iphones, not just the sales but also the manufacturing costs, nobody is likely to buy a refurb 1st gen when a 2nd gen is out.

As to the rich people - how many people who have bought a 1st gen intend to buy a 2nd gen - a large amount I would bet. Assuming people have waited this long (due to contracts say) and 29 days after they buy a 1st gen a second gen comes out most would forfit the 10% or whatever just to get a 2nd gen - the simple who wants the last gen of a 'fashion' phone, so by removing the option of returning the phone those who can afford it will buy a second gen much sooner. If they've had the iphone v1 from release then they'll be buying a v2 anyways wouldn't they.

[winterspan]

Sorry haven't read everything.

All the people going no way would apple have no iphone for 30 days etc are clearly forgetting a few simple aspects of apple sales and marketting strategy. See my reasoning below.
1) 30 day return policy - no iphone v1 for 30 days means a) no returns b) potential second purchase from stupid rich people.
2) All the free publicity they're getting from tech mags, blogs etc
3) The 'leaked' specs, images, parts etc for the last month or so - usual tool up time is about a month or two.
4) WWDC is coming soon :)

1a) Apples policy is only 14-days for customers who bought the old model and want to upgrade.
1b) This doesn't make sense. If they wanted to rip-off "stupid rich people", the would keep selling the iPhone until the day before the new one. By going 30 days with minimal stock, this warns everyone a new model is going to launch soon.

I'm too tired to read the rest.. lol

[LeviG]

1a) Apples policy is only 14-days for customers who bought the old model and want to upgrade.
I'm sure theres a 30 day something or other in there somewhere.

1b) This doesn't make sense. If they wanted to rip-off "stupid rich people", the would keep selling the iPhone until the day before the new one.
Why, by doing this they prevent the backlash like they got with the price drop for example.
By going 30 days with minimal stock, this warns everyone a new model is going to launch soon.

exactly - see above about backlash :)

[winterspan]

I'm sure theres a 30 day something or other in there somewhere.

Why, by doing this they prevent the backlash like they got with the price drop for example.

exactly - see above about backlash :)

So you are saying that by having the iPhone unavailable for 30 days, the stupid rich people won't have as much of a reason to bitch when they end up buying the new model? That assumes stupid rich people will even care about spending another $400... :)

[LeviG]

So you are saying that by having the iPhone unavailable for 30 days, the stupid rich people won't have as much of a reason to bitch when they end up buying the new model? That assumes stupid rich people will even care about spending another $400... :)

yep, look how all the initial adopters (the rich people :)) moaned after the initial price drops, this is just apple making sure they don't have to give the metaphorical $100 back again. Apple is the only company (at present) who can just take a product off the market as people will wait for it to come out again.

[woodekm]

yep, look how all the initial adopters (the rich people :)) moaned after the initial price drops, this is just apple making sure they don't have to give the metaphorical $100 back again. Apple is the only company (at present) who can just take a product off the market as people will wait for it to come out again.


Yep. Although I don't consider myself a "rich person", after 16 days of owning my iPhone, the price drop happened. I was just out of the 14 day return policy and out of luck. Everyone that was within the 14 days, was returning their phones like gangbusters, to just get another phone at the new price (and also prol a good time to get a refurb).

Never thought of it before, but I can actually see this as a real reason to quit selling the current model for at least 14 days before a new release. They might not want to deal with a bunch of mad returners (been there before) returning perfectly good phones because of a new model.

[HD303]

I know Apple could care less about my situation, but I wanted to provide my daughter with an iphone for graduation. Looks like she's getting an empty box with a note stating "Coming Soon", So either way Apple gets the sale, but it sucks as a gift giver and the gift receiver.

[xhambonex]

You can still give your daughter an iPhone for graduation, just go to an apple or at&t store or ebay one. If you want 3g, the model doesn't exist. So you can't complain about giving someone an empty box, when you can't buy the product to begin with. (only in the case of 3g)

[btnnaz]

Hey my att and apple store are both sold out so maybe so are his.

[xhambonex]

Hey my att and apple store are both sold out so maybe so are his.

ebay has some, your right maybe his stores don't, maybe they do, i guess my point is there are EDGE phones available, and you don't have to give someone an empty box.:)

[winterspan]

I know Apple could care less about my situation, but I wanted to provide my daughter with an iphone for graduation. Looks like she's getting an empty box with a note stating "Coming Soon", So either way Apple gets the sale, but it sucks as a gift giver and the gift receiver.

If you wait and give her a coming soon note, I bet she will much appreciate that. I mean do you really want to giver her an iPhone right now and then in three weeks she watches as the new model comes out that has X features that make it so much better than hers and all her friends are getting the new one that they can do X with.... See what I'm saying? lol. Just wait on it... A good idea is to give her an iPhone cake! I've seen one online... that would be great

[louden]

Here's some food for thought. Since Apple is letting the supply dry out, they'll probably have iPhone V2 ready as soon as it's announced at the WWDC. That would mean that they'd be ready to go on 6/9 or soon thereafter.

If there was going to be some delay after the announcement, Apple could have used that time to let the supply chain dry up.

I hope they have an especially large stock at the SF Apple Store.