Apple Shooting 3G iPhone Commercial in 5th Avenue Store?

[MacRumors]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com)


http://images.macrumors.com/article/2008/05/29/170138-IMG_0486_400.jpg

Apple's 24-hour flagship 5th Avenue retail store in Manhattan is in the process of shutting down for the night. Apple's retail page (http://www.apple.com/retail/fifthavenue/) reflects the temporary shutdown:
Please note we will be temporarily closed Thursday, May 29 at 3:00 p.m. and will reopen Friday, May 30 at 9:00 a.m. During this time, please visit one of our other two Manhattan locations.

Employees are telling passersby that a commercial is being shot at the 5th Avenue Apple store. We've been told that Apple's 5th Avenue store has only been entirely closed twice in its history: the iPhone launch and the Leopard launch.

According to our sources, Apple is actually filming a commercial for the upcoming 3G-capable iPhone with filming to occur inside and around the 5th Avenue store.

Article Link (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/05/29/apple-shooting-3g-iphone-commercial-in-5th-avenue-store/)

[raskar]

wohoo.. a commercial for my next iPhone :)
can't wait for its release....

[theheadguy]

Verrrrry nice! In addition to the phone-- could they be adding something to the stores??

Hopefully this won't be some disappointment... I'd love to see something very exciting here in June.

[ppc_michael]

Man, as a videographer, I'd love to be on that crew. :)

[BASE91]

Get In Line Now!

[LVdustin]

If that doesn't give us 100% confirmation as opposed to all of the case mock-ups, oversee part and chip makers, and the closing of this store for a commercial specifically for this...then I don't know what else will confirm this piece of shiny hardware until WWDC.

[Niiro13]

Why are they filming it in Manhattan =/.

Yay commercials!

[Elsewhere]

I hope someone with a serious telephoto lens happens to be in the area during the commercial shoot. ;)

[LVdustin]

Why are they filming it in Manhattan =/.

Yay commercials!

Probably because the Apple Stores in NYC are the most respectable, if not, the most well known for it's amazing city-life, awesome events, and the faboulous architecture.

[Switz213]

I'm hiding inside the store as we speak (look in the storage room).

This is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Niiro13]

I hope someone with a serious telephoto lens happens to be in the area during the commercial shoot. ;)

Psh, they prolly film in the storage room XD.

Probably because the Apple Stores in NYC are the most respectable, if not, the most well known for it's amazing city-life, awesome events, and the faboulous architecture.

Ahh, understandable.

[runxc24]

T-minus 11 days!

[LVdustin]

I'm hiding inside the store as we speak (look in the storage room).

This is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh how amazing that would be.

[wako]

What ever happened to the line that formed for no apparent reason? Are they still there?

[ipodtouchy333]

I don't think I can wait that long as I've been without a cell phone and my ipod (touch) for 2 weeks already in anticipation for this ! AHHHHH the excitement !!!

[shrtmkr]

wouldn't it be cool if they start selling it tomorrow morning :)

Damn I need one of those ugly blue shirts to get in and take a look.

[LVdustin]

What ever happened to the line that formed for no apparent reason? Are they still there?

That line that was formed was for the iPhone, the 5th Ave. Store has had very very limited stock, and the line was because they were back in stock and people were in line to purchase them.

[g8bo]

I'm hiding inside the store as we speak (look in the storage room).

This is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!

me too! i dressed up as a janitor:D

[Mykbibby]

I have a feeling its not a commercial, but possibly a guided tour... like the one with Bob.

Its really a pain knowing how close the phone is, but yet how far it is as well....

[shawnce]

Psh, they prolly film in the storage room XD. Actually I have it on authority they are filming it in the elevator... something about boxes in the elevator.

[elbirth]

If that doesn't give us 100% confirmation as opposed to all of the case mock-ups, oversee part and chip makers, and the closing of this store for a commercial specifically for this...then I don't know what else will confirm this piece of shiny hardware until WWDC.

This doesn't give us confirmation of anything other than the fact that they're closing the store for the evening.

Employees are saying they're shooting a commercial so that's probably believable since they're not allowed to speculate and such, but no one has said what the commercial is for. only "sources" have said it's for the 3G iPhone.

Kind of interesting that they're using a store to film though.. the commercials don't really have a location and people or anything, so I wonder what they could be doing in it

[Adisah]

Perhaps, they are making a guided tour for a mystery product, and maybe this is there way of tightening security. Or, yeah they are probabaly shooting commercials but usually the commercial were shot outside. I guess they're doing it inside to be secure.

[Saladinos]

It's days now. Days.

[Peace]

If a blurry elevator pic doesn't come out of this I'm going to be seriously bummed.

[Mykbibby]

Actually I have it on authority they are filming it in the elevator... something about boxes in the elevator.

LMAO!

I thought of this master scheme... what if someone had accepted a video chat with a computer that would be facing the action, dimmed the screen, watched from home while simultaneously recording the screen...

Anyone know how to do this? Know how to hack in the 5th avenue Macs?

[shawnce]

I have a feeling its not a commercial, but possibly a guided tour... like the one with Bob. Those are filmed on a nice controlled sound stage.

[elbirth]

I have a feeling its not a commercial, but possibly a guided tour... like the one with Bob.

Its really a pain knowing how close the phone is, but yet how far it is as well....

I wonder this as well. The current iPhone commercials all have like a black background or something else that doesn't show any sort of environment.

[LVdustin]

John Hodgman and Justin Long were just spotted walking in, looks like John is holding a PocketPC while Justin is holding a iPhone....hmmm

Maybe their scrapping the iPod app in the iPhone and including a Zune app replacement instead....

[elbirth]

LMAO!

I thought of this master scheme... what if someone had accepted a video chat with a computer that would be facing the action, dimmed the screen, watched from home while simultaneously recording the screen...

Anyone know how to do this? Know how to hack in the 5th avenue Macs?

that would actually be pretty awesome

[LVdustin]

I wonder this as well. The current iPhone commercials all have like a black background or something else that doesn't show any sort of environment.

Several iPhone commercials have had regular iPhone customers (probably paid actors) standing infront of a black background drop talking about their experience with the city in the background...this could be the same dealio.

[Peace]

John Hodgman and Justin Long were just spotted walking in, looks like John is holding a PocketPC while Justin is holding a iPhone....hmmm

Maybe their scrapping the iPod app in the iPhone and including a Zune app replacement instead....

I can see it now.

Hi. I'm a PocketPC and I'm an iPhone.

Hodgman : look at all the cool things I can do with this.
Mac guy stands around playing a video game while PC talks.

[Mykbibby]

OMG ITS HERE!!! I FOUND IT!!! :eek:

I can't believe how small the elevator is though...

[Sport73]

I doubt this is a commercial for the new iPhone.

I'm willing to bet it's a new "Get a Mac" ad featuring Long & Hodgman (both of whom I believe are NYC residents). Apple is probably looking to incorporate the Genius Bar 'experience' into these ads more explicitly, and what better way than with an on-location shoot at a store. They'll probably have Hodgeman 'sneaking around' trying to sabotage things, or some other wacky concept.

[LVdustin]

OMG ITS HERE!!! I FOUND IT!!! :eek:

Dr. Evil - I shall call him....Mini Phone...or in this case...a big f*ckin phone.

[impact_blue]

If a blurry elevator pic doesn't come out of this I'm going to be seriously bummed.

Memo to everyone on the set.. Every single one of you will be fired if any leaks are released.

Yea I'm sure that's how it works.

[LVdustin]

I doubt this is a commercial for the new iPhone.

I'm willing to bet it's a new "Get a Mac" ad featuring Long & Hodgman (both of whom I believe are NYC residents). Apple is probably looking to incorporate the Genius Bar 'experience' into these ads more explicitly, and what better way than with an on-location shoot at a store. They'll probably have Hodgeman 'sneaking around' trying to sabotage things, or some other wacky concept.


That could be one idea, But why would a "PC" sabotage the genius bar? Usually those commercials point out the good/bad things between each platform, and are shot in a studio.

[Mykbibby]

That could be one idea, But why would a "PC" sabotage the genius bar? Usually those commercials point out the good/bad things between each platform, and are shot in a studio.

It's not a Mac/PC commercial... that white background is signature...

What if its for an unannounced product? Like the iTablet... :p

[inkswamp]

OMG ITS HERE!!! I FOUND IT!!! :eek:

I can't believe how small the elevator is though...

That elevator pic is totally fake! It says 4th floor in the elevator and a 1st on the door. What a Photoshop disaster. I almost believed it but your lack of attention to detail blew it. Nice try, though.








;) Just so nobody thinks I was serious.

[philgilder]

That elevator pic is totally fake! It says 4th floor in the elevator and a 1st on the door. What a Photoshop disaster. I almost believed it but your lack of attention to detail blew it. Nice try, though.
well quite clearly in the elevator it says "elevtator 4" - nothing to do with floor level

your complete and utter non-understanding of elevators and their floor/number labelling system astounds me

;) Just so nobody thinks I was serious.
ditto ;)

[BoyBach]

Dr. Evil - I shall call him....Mini Phone...or in this case...a big f*ckin phone.


Shouldn't that read "frickin'"? :D ;)

[bluebomberman]

At 3pm the place was packed - one has to guess that this commercial that they're supposedly filming is a big deal for them to empty out the store for such an extended period of time.

Too bad I don't live nearby - it would have been interesting to try to peer in later tonight to see what's happening. (And by nearby, I mean walking distance.)

[LVdustin]

Shouldn't that read "frickin'"? :D ;)

....well...I screwed that one up. Let's hope the MPAA makes a new Austin Powers rated R so I can back it up one day... ;)

[gusapple]

I'm not sure how one would make a commercial in an Apple Store. My feeling is that Disney is just shooting something inside.

[CaryMacGuy]

Why are they filming it in Manhattan =/.

I think that Manhattan is the best place to film commercials. The city is always on the move. Also maybe it isn't a commercial that would air on TV. Remember back when they made little 6-7 minute featurettes when the new Apple board was formed, the new G3 iMac, and the iPod was released. Maybe it is one of them. I just cannot think of how a commercial that is Apple quality would require an Apple store.

Maybe it is employee training and they are saying that it is a commercial because they don't want customers knowing that they have knowledge of this product. That could be good because maybe Steve is planning to say "the 3G iPhone...[spend 1 hour wowing the audience + a One more thing...] and it is available starting TODAY"

Come on Apple! Stop doing this to us...give us the 3G iPhone NOW!

[LVdustin]

It's not a Mac/PC commercial... that white background is signature...

What if its for an unannounced product? Like the iTablet... :p

It could be both, the world will never know....it would even be a commercial for 10.6...which we wont see for another half a decade...

[Greezyg]

somebody get in that store stat! set a laptop to go to like stickam.com and stream video from inside the store!!!

[logandzwon]

Quick, someone go hide in the bathroom or under a desk and a snap a pic of the new phone.

[Mr Maui]

I think that Manhattan is the best place to film commercials. The city is always on the move. Also maybe it isn't a commercial that would air on TV. Remember back when they made little 6-7 minute featurettes when the new Apple board was formed, the new G3 iMac, and the iPod was released. Maybe it is one of them. I just cannot think of how a commercial that is Apple quality would require an Apple store.

Maybe it is employee training and they are saying that it is a commercial because they don't want customers knowing that they have knowledge of this product. That could be good because maybe Steve is planning to say "the 3G iPhone...[spend 1 hour wowing the audience + a One more thing...] and it is available starting TODAY"

Come on Apple! Stop doing this to us...give us the 3G iPhone NOW!

Perhaps it is a mini featurette for SJ to use at WWDC. :cool:

Or ... perhaps SJ just woke up yesterday and said ... "Want to see how I can make Macsters go nuts?"

[myod-rules]

I was just in the store Monday and the doors do not have traditional locks. A bunch of us could storm it and there's no way they could stop us...

...no way I tell you!

[kornyboy]

Wirelessly posted (iPhone: 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)

I can't wait to see it. It does seem like it would affect sales a bit to close that store. It has always been extremely crowded every time I've been.

[LVdustin]

Wirelessly posted (iPhone: 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)

I can't wait to see it. It does seem like it would affect sales a bit to close that store. It has always been extremely crowded every time I've been.

I wonder how packed the other locations are today in NYC because of that one being closed. the SoHo location isn't that far, it's a nice walk, or a short subway ride away.

[ClassicBean]

Why is everyone assuming that this is a commercial for an Apple product? It could be for something completely unrelated to Apple.

I used to write commercials for major clients and we'd often shoot at locations unrelated to the product. For example, we once shot a car commercial at the headquarters of an office furniture company. It happens all the time, especially if a place has style.

As long as the client shooting the commercial has enough cash to compensate for sales lost during those hours, it's more than possible.

[CaryMacGuy]

Or ... perhaps SJ just woke up yesterday and said ... "Want to see how I can make Macsters go nuts?"

It really doesn't take much to get us going on these Forums...

well not too much longer and we will know everything.

[Mr Maui]

It really doesn't take much to get us going on these Forums....

I think that was my point. :p

[bacaramac]

I had asked on the other thread, there are no other 24hr stores in the US so maybe all the stores have something planned for tonight. Product display setup or Training or something else. Who knows.

Someone needs to make a trip by the other Apple stores later tonight and see if there is activity. I would do it, but live far from the closest store.

[NewSc2]

"I own a small stationery shop over in TriBeCa"

[ricosuave]

We are getting closer to 3G day!

[LVdustin]

I had asked on the other thread, there are no other 24hr stores in the US so maybe all the stores have something planned for tonight. Product display setup or Training or something else. Who knows.

Someone needs to make a trip by the other Apple stores later tonight and see if there is activity. I would do it, but live far from the closest store.

I have friends who work in the 2 Las Vegas store locations, and neither of them have an extra shift for training and they are unaware of any type of closing for something specific. Usually when they get shipments in, the ones that say, "Do not open before **/**/**** there is some type of training announcement for a future date. But as of right now, no other stores are closed today/tonight/ or whenever for the time being.

Is there no confirmation of any crew/film equipment there? possibly a van or a truck parked anywhere near there?

There is some type of production of media going on in there. And it cant be a private event, like what they did for Tribeca, because those were all open..and if they were closed, they wouldn't be kept entirely secret, especially since there is outside sources for those types of events. Like when Mike Shinoda slipped that they were playing in Feb.

[macman7002]

Guided tour anyone?

[LVdustin]

Guided tour anyone?

Guided tour for what though, and why make it so private...

[shrtmkr]

I will be near the store in couple of hours, I'll post you guys an update later tonite. Maybe I can get a picture of the store too

[Mr Ikasu]

You have to wonder what they are doing that would warrant closing their flagship store.

Surely if it was a simple commercial at the Genius Bar or whatever it would have been cheaper just to build a replica and use that.

Interesting...

[FreeState]

Why is everyone assuming that this is a commercial for an Apple product? It could be for something completely unrelated to Apple.

I used to write commercials for major clients and we'd often shoot at locations unrelated to the product. For example, we once shot a car commercial at the headquarters of an office furniture company. It happens all the time, especially if a place has style.

As long as the client shooting the commercial has enough cash to compensate for sales lost during those hours, it's more than possible.

Maybe Microsoft is filming a Zune commercial there! Thats the ticket!

Seriously Steve would never allow any other company to use Apples highly visible flagship store as an advertisement. Cant see that happening.

[Beric]

Maybe Microsoft is filming a Zune commercial there! Thats the ticket!

Seriously Steve would never allow any other company to use Apples highly visible flagship store as an advertisement. Cant see that happening.

If whoever if was offered enough money, why not? All it takes is enough money. I'm sure they'd shut down for a day for, say, $100 million. :D

[t0mat0]

My bet is on a StreetView demo advert ala Android keynote at I/O. That or using the store as a kickass backdrop.

[arklab]

Well, If someone snaps a picture of Steve walking in ... with what looks like a slim wallet ... in BOTH back pockets ...
Then I would believe!

[Kuska]

Ha aHa Ha Ha!

Clues everywhere!

Store shuts at '3'

Opens on the 30th at 9.00...................'3-9' looks a tad like '3g'...........

........Or maybe I've just been reading the detective thread on electronic computers and shipping containers for too long - Elementary my dear Watson....;)

[rish]

Why is everyone assuming that this is a commercial for an Apple product? It could be for something completely unrelated to Apple.

I used to write commercials for major clients and we'd often shoot at locations unrelated to the product. For example, we once shot a car commercial at the headquarters of an office furniture company. It happens all the time, especially if a place has style.

As long as the client shooting the commercial has enough cash to compensate for sales lost during those hours, it's more than possible.

No mate, they must be shooting a iPhone Guided tour ad/vid. Another company filming at the Apple Store location would have to have a very serious amount of stash based of per footage sales. Hefty amount I say.

Any of you people own the current gen iPhone? If so are you flogging in order to have funds to get the new one?

[FreeState]

If whoever if was offered enough money, why not? All it takes is enough money. I'm sure they'd shut down for a day for, say, $100 million. :D

LOL, well the only way I could see Apple say yes to that - for any amount of money - would be for a movie or a collaborative ad (ala American Idol) - but not for a product that would not strengthen the Apple brand or image (which IMO is any product thats not made by Apple). Movies on the other hand are free advertising etc.

[Van Wildonher]

I'm starting to doubt the in store release of the 9th. How often does Apple get and start selling new products within 10 days?

Although the iPhone will be very similar to the first one so they may not need more than an hour or two training for it?

[bacaramac]

Funny, they probably are closing for maintinence (Mold problem, water leak, etc).

[berkleeboy210]

I'm starting to doubt the in store release of the 9th. How often does Apple get and start selling new products within 10 days?

Although the iPhone will be very similar to the first one so they may not need more than an hour or two training for it?

Well, It might not be the SAME day. but because the keynote is on a Monday I wouldn't be surprised if the Phone was released in June 13, at 6pm. The Friday following the keynote.

I just want some more concrete info to pop up so I know when it's safe to put my current on eBay.

[mcb001982]

I wonder how packed the other locations are today in NYC because of that one being closed. the SoHo location isn't that far, it's a nice walk, or a short subway ride away.

Um..... Soho is quite a walk from Midtown, I would say 2.0 to 2.5 hours (metro would take a solid 25 minutes depending on track traffic). I live on 57th and 9th which takes a good 20 minutes just to walk to the apple store on 58th and 5th. Remember you also have the store in the Meat Packing District too.

[pilotError]

I wonder how packed the other locations are today in NYC because of that one being closed. the SoHo location isn't that far, it's a nice walk, or a short subway ride away.

You beat me to it! LOL Hope you got your Nike's on!

[thechidz]

Why are they filming it in Manhattan =/.

Yay commercials!

because thats where the cool kids are:cool:

[thechidz]

Um..... Soho is quite a walk from Midtown, I would say 2.0 to 2.5 hours (metro would take a solid 25 minutes depending on track traffic). I live on 57th and 9th which takes a good 20 minutes just to walk to the apple store on 58th and 5th. Remember you also have the store in the Meat Packing District too.

no, it takes me an hour to walk from 5th ave store to soho

[Deimo]

I'm saying no to it being a commercial... the GM Building (the building that the Apple Store 5th Avenue is located under) is a union building, so if a film shoot were taking place inside, then it would have to be performed by a union film crew. Union film crews take up an entire city block with all of their trucks for the various people involved, and nobody so far has mentioned a lick of seeing any of those.

[mcb001982]

no, it takes me an hour to walk from 5th ave store to soho

I have never really walked from the 5th ave store to soho, but you must walk really fast to cover 3.5 miles... Maybe not 2.5 hours but it is a haul that most people don't walk.... that was all I was saying.

[extraextra]

~something is in the air~

[goodcow]

I have never really walked from the 5th ave store to soho, but you must walk really fast to cover 3.5 miles... Maybe not 2.5 hours but it is a haul that most people don't walk.... that was all I was saying.

I walk from SoHo back home to 79th and York often. It's about an hour walk, though I do walk quickly.

[mmoosa]

would love 4 anyone to take a pic of the store now and post it...i would, only if i was 8000 miles closer:p

[mdodd]

Hey guys, been following your discussion this afternoon. I actually run a website called theiLife.com; and I've got a friend out at the store right now taking pictures and reporting back to me. Confirmed: it is a commercial.
Strange things happening inside the store, there are some pictures, check out here (http://theilife.com/2008/05/29/5th-avenue-apple-store-closes-liveblog-breaking-news/) for more and updated info and pictures.

[bacaramac]

Cardboard, iPhone, Table. Does anyone see models with new 3G iPhone dancing around on top of the iPhone table???

[TJ10]

Hey guys, been following your discussion this afternoon. I actually run a website called theiLife.com; and I've got a friend out at the store right now taking pictures and reporting back to me. Confirmed: it is a commercial.
Strange things happening inside the store, there are some pictures, check out here (http://theilife.com/2008/05/29/5th-avenue-apple-store-closes-liveblog-breaking-news/) for more and updated info and pictures.

These pictures make it obvious that its a commercial and sounds like an iPhone commercial.

[lazyrighteye]

This doesn't give us confirmation of anything other than the fact that they're closing the store for the evening.

Employees are saying they're shooting a commercial so that's probably believable since they're not allowed to speculate and such, but no one has said what the commercial is for. only "sources" have said it's for the 3G iPhone.

Kind of interesting that they're using a store to film though.. the commercials don't really have a location and people or anything, so I wonder what they could be doing in it

Exactly.

Given the fact we're 11 days out from the Stevenote, I highly doubt it's an iPhone 3G spot. Assuming they're really releasing one on June 9, any associated spot is already in the can, edited and ready for broadcast.

MAYBE they're shooting a spot focused on their retail store offerings.
That could be both interesting & welcome.

[Syrus28]

Exactly.

Given the fact we're 11 days out from the Stevenote, I highly doubt it's an iPhone 3G spot. Assuming they're really releasing one on June 9, any associated spot is already in the can, edited and ready for broadcast.

MAYBE they're shooting a spot focused on their retail store offerings.
That could be both interesting & welcome.

Wait. A commercial about an Apple store? The place that everyone already knows sells iPods, iPhones, Macs, and accessories? I don't think there's a shortage of knowledge about Apple's offerings.

[chuckiej]

I hope someone with a serious telephoto lens happens to be in the area during the commercial shoot. ;)

Uh, the store is underground. :D

[Syrus28]

Uh, the store is underground. :D

There are some pretty tall buildings near by...:rolleyes:

[arn]

Hey guys, been following your discussion this afternoon. I actually run a website called theiLife.com; and I've got a friend out at the store right now taking pictures and reporting back to me. Confirmed: it is a commercial.
Strange things happening inside the store, there are some pictures, check out here (http://theilife.com/2008/05/29/5th-avenue-apple-store-closes-liveblog-breaking-news/) for more and updated info and pictures.

http://images.macrumors.com/article/2008/05/29/200538-lightscamera_400.jpg from TheiLife link quoted.

[Mykbibby]

I hope someone with a serious telephoto lens happens to be in the area during the commercial shoot. ;)

I hope someone with x-ray vision happens to be in the area during the commercial shoot :rolleyes:

[cdinca]

I have never really walked from the 5th ave store to soho, but you must walk really fast to cover 3.5 miles... Maybe not 2.5 hours but it is a haul that most people don't walk.... that was all I was saying.

not to harp on an issue that you are clearly trying to drop, but even walking slow and getting mugged once, you should be able to walk 3.5 miles in under an hour. I've never been to new york, but the movies show you guys walking all the time (and getting mugged).

[mmoosa]

Hey guys, been following your discussion this afternoon. I actually run a website called theiLife.com; and I've got a friend out at the store right now taking pictures and reporting back to me. Confirmed: it is a commercial.
Strange things happening inside the store, there are some pictures, check out here (http://theilife.com/2008/05/29/5th-avenue-apple-store-closes-liveblog-breaking-news/) for more and updated info and pictures.

THANKS A BILLION!:)

[bacaramac]

not to harp on an issue that you are clearly trying to drop, but even walking slow and getting mugged once, you should be able to walk 3.5 miles in under an hour. I've never been to new york, but the movies show you guys walking all the time (and getting mugged).

LOL, now that was funny. Made my night.

EDIT: Hooking into the fire hydrant?? Water show anyone or will they just wet the ground to make it look better??

[Rot'nApple]

Why are they filming it in Manhattan =/.

Yay commercials!

Manhattan, what better place to film a commercial... "Can you hear me now?" :D

[Tankgunk]

Hey guys, been following your discussion this afternoon. I actually run a website called theiLife.com; and I've got a friend out at the store right now taking pictures and reporting back to me. Confirmed: it is a commercial.
Strange things happening inside the store, there are some pictures, check out here (http://theilife.com/2008/05/29/5th-avenue-apple-store-closes-liveblog-breaking-news/) for more and updated info and pictures.

We should defiantly form a huge super secret spy network to prevent Apple from keeping any secrets. Of course I've completely foiled my plans by typing this out loud anyway. I can't wait until Apple has to use lie detectors when hiring...

[EagerDragon]

Funny, they probably are closing for maintinence (Mold problem, water leak, etc).

Maybe a Mini infection?

[mdodd]

http://images.macrumors.com/article/2008/05/29/200538-lightscamera_400.jpg from TheiLife link quoted.

Hey, thanks a lot.. remember waiting in line for Macworld? We remember you!!

THANKS A BILLION!:)

You're welcome.

[BlakTornado]

They made a big mistake telling people that there was going to be filming there :P

Should have said "General Maintenance" or something :P no-one would have cared if that was the case.

[Mykbibby]

They made a big mistake telling people that there was going to be filming there :P

Should have said "General Maintenance" or something :P no-one would have cared if that was the case.

Ya they sure would have believed that with a giant light and a camera crew all over the streets :rolleyes:

[toxicbomber]

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)

Let the MacBook Touch live! That's all I have to say. ;)

[ESpen36]

I expect that it's not just about a commercial. Apple needs time, away from the public eye, to change all of the store displays over to showcase the new iPhone. So, I agree with the earlier poster who believes that the shut-down is about redecoration/displays. That way, the instant Steve makes the announcement, and the doors open to the delighted public, the store will be completely made-over in 3G 3G 3G!

The curious thing, though, is that the store is re-opening at 9am EDT. How could Steve possibly make an announcement at 6am Cupertino time??? Nobody would be awake to hear it!

[CKtoph]

I expect that it's not just about a commercial. Apple needs time, away from the public eye, to change all of the store displays over to showcase the new iPhone. So, I agree with the earlier poster who believes that the shut-down is about redecoration/displays. That way, the instant Steve makes the announcement, and the doors open to the delighted public, the store will be completely made-over in 3G 3G 3G!

The curious thing, though, is that the store is re-opening at 9am EDT. How could Steve possibly make an announcement at 6am Cupertino time??? Nobody would be awake to hear it!

So, explain the lights, genie lift, camera boom, film crew? :p

Has to be one of two things: a commercial like people who are on the scene have been reporting or perhaps an on-location shoot for a film.

**EDIT: Nevermind :p I re-read your first few words that said it's "not JUST about the commercial"

[newyorksole]

I would be pissed if I see a new iPhone commerical displaying the current gen iPhone. I want 3G commercials!!

[Mykbibby]

I expect that it's not just about a commercial. Apple needs time, away from the public eye, to change all of the store displays over to showcase the new iPhone. So, I agree with the earlier poster who believes that the shut-down is about redecoration/displays. That way, the instant Steve makes the announcement, and the doors open to the delighted public, the store will be completely made-over in 3G 3G 3G!

The curious thing, though, is that the store is re-opening at 9am EDT. How could Steve possibly make an announcement at 6am Cupertino time??? Nobody would be awake to hear it!

Then why is only the New York Store closed? And why are there light and a camera crew? And why is there no media event for tomorrow? And why...

You get my point.

[thechidz]

maybe the new iphone will be released earlier than expected??? tomorrow is the last friday of the month and it would be just in time to show it off for the sdk release so people can start using it pronto!

[CKtoph]

Man, this live blog they posted is addicting. I can't even pay attention to the Lost season finale with this stuff.

"8:33 PM BLACK CASES MARKED “Anonymous 5+4″ entering store. Picture to come."

http://theilife.com/2008/05/29/5th-avenue-apple-store-closes-liveblog-breaking-news/

What does 5+4 mean!? I think the Lost conspiracy theories are getting to me.

[Mykbibby]

Anonymous 5: iPhones
Anonymous 4: Tablets ;)

[z0n3x]

Say hello to the 3g iPhone folks....

...or perhaps a new product?

The buzz is in viral marketing these days, not advertising.

How else do you introduce something new in a glass box.

[bacaramac]

Why is it EVERY time the good stuff is always captured in blurry pictures. The black cases are blurry and the rest are clear. Oh well.

[xbigman15x]

^Just think how J.J. Abrams is feeling with the finale show going on and all of this.

(He is also a apple fanboy)

[Mr Maui]

Anyone else lose the link to the iLife site? :confused:

Apple get the plug pulled?

[Gnuff]

This might be a longshot, but I remember somthing some time ago apple pattended somthing about being able to see what other customers are browsing for in the store and so on, I'm not sure, but it was somthing like that. A demostration of such a system might need an actual apple store, maby the boxes has the equipment needed for this system. Then again, apple has a history of patenting lots of stuff that never sees the light of day. I'm probebly way off, but I thought I should mention it.

[CKtoph]

Anyone else lose the link to the iLife site? :confused:

Apple get the plug pulled?

I think they're getting overwhelmed with the refresh spam. haha

[Mr Maui]

This might be a longshot, but I remember somthing some time ago apple pattended somthing about being able to see what other customers are browsing for in the store and so on, I'm not sure, but it was somthing like that. A demostration of such a system might need an actual apple store, maby the boxes has the equipment needed for this system. Then again, apple has a history of patenting lots of stuff that never sees the light of day. I'm probebly way off, but I thought I should mention it.

I remember that post. Anyone got the link?

[ESpen36]

maybe the new iphone will be released earlier than expected??? tomorrow is the last friday of the month and it would be just in time to show it off for the sdk release so people can start using it pronto!

I agree. I'm sure Apple is desperate to get the 3G iPhone in consumers' hands ASAP--lots of graduations happening this time of year (or about to happen)! What better graduation gift?! In fact, Apple has already missed most of the college graduations. But most of the high school graduations are still coming up.


Any word from AT&T about whether the 3G network is sufficiently fully deployed to handle so much new 3G traffic?

[Mykbibby]

This might be a longshot, but I remember somthing some time ago apple pattended somthing about being able to see what other customers are browsing for in the store and so on, I'm not sure, but it was somthing like that. A demostration of such a system might need an actual apple store, maby the boxes has the equipment needed for this system. Then again, apple has a history of patenting lots of stuff that never sees the light of day. I'm probebly way off, but I thought I should mention it.

I remember that as well, but I have a feeling this has to do with iPhones and iTablets ;)

[bacaramac]

I just got this when I refreshed the page.

Oh ****

We're probably overloaded, which means that our hosting bills are likely about to shoot up.
Additionally, Jonathan Ive was unavailable to design a 503 page.

And it actually says the S*** word.

[Beric]

I think they're getting overwhelmed with the refresh spam. haha

That's actually probably true. I know I was refreshing it often. :D

[themiracle]

Anyone else lose the link to the iLife site? :confused:

Apple get the plug pulled?


Oh ****
We're probably overloaded, which means that our hosting bills are likely about to shoot up.

Additionally, Jonathan Ive was unavailable to design a 503 page.

Maybe it's Moshe and the team DOS-ing the server, or it's just us rabid fans refreshing too often...

[mmoosa]

i think the ilife website is overloaded atm, not working.:(:(

[Mr Maui]

I just got this when I refreshed the page.

Oh ****

We're probably overloaded, which means that our hosting bills are likely about to shoot up.
Additionally, Jonathan Ive was unavailable to design a 503 page.

And it actually says the S*** word.

Perhaps SJ has had the site "APPLE-FIED". :eek:

You saw too much. They Apple Ninjas will be at your door soon. :D

[bobertoq]

This is exciting :D Surely there are some people watching.... I'd like the inside scoop.

[arn]

theilife site seems to be down. here's a recent photo

[CKtoph]

Any word from AT&T about whether the 3G network is sufficiently fully deployed to handle so much new 3G traffic?

http://sev.prnewswire.com/computer-electronics/20080521/AQW51721052008-1.html

AT&T's announcement that they will have their 3G network rolled out by June. Also announced was their implementation of the HSPA technology.

[Mr Maui]

theilife site seems to be down. here's a recent photo

Apple Ninjas on patrol. iLife site just acquired by Apple in minor deal (except to the site host). Terms of deal include the hosting party's life is spared (but just barely). :D

[mmoosa]

and the blurry 1. :D

[xbigman15x]

Perhaps we should limit ourselves to one refresh every 10 min. I suppose not all of us need to do it either since we can just post whatever shows up on this thread.

[Mr Maui]

http://theilife.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/photo12-225x300.jpg

and the blurry 1. :D

THAT'S IT!!! iPhones with new iMotion built it!!! :eek:

[HkyGrL2]

http://theilife.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/2534440003_115acf226f.jpg

[edit: made into attachment so it will load - arn]

[Gnuff]

I tracked down the link to the patentstory I was talking about a few post's ago. http://www.macrumors.com/2008/04/21/apple-trying-to-improve-online-shopping-atmosphere/


EDIT: I see now that it was about the online store, not an actuall store, sorry.

[kgeier82]

i wonder how much we are saving apple in advertising costs making such huge deals about every single tiny thing.

who cares if its a commercial? the phone is coming, sooner rather than later i hope. Big whoopy :)

What better way to role it out than with a new set of PC/Mac commercials, where the iphone starts to be another actor... :)

here's to waiting, with the few sane people left, not going crazy over each and every new thread every 5 min :)

[mmoosa]

Lol

[Mr Maui]

i wonder how much we are saving apple in advertising costs making such huge deals about every single tiny thing.

who cares if its a commercial? the phone is coming, sooner rather than later i hope. Big whoopy :)

What better way to role it out than with a new set of PC/Mac commercials, where the iphone starts to be another actor... :)

here's to waiting, with the few sane people left, not going crazy over each and every new thread every 5 min :)

I auditioned for the iPhone role but was told I looked too much like a pink RAZR. :D
(Knew I shouldn't have spent so much time in the sun that day)

[HkyGrL2]

oh, thank you for whoever edited my pic. I realized I should have done it after it failed to show up! haha
Yikes, I can't concentrate on my work...damn ilife site!

[kgeier82]

I auditioned to be the iPhone role but was told I looked too much like a pink RAZR. :D


they could really have a whole group in the commercial..

"Hi im a 700wx treo running windows mobile."
"Hi im a PC"

"Hi im a mac, and this is my best friend iphone. together we rule the iWorld."

lets not forget, where steve jobs is a god :)



I just want 32GB, and bluetooth audio for 500$. Come to me phone!

[BrownPlopz]

I auditioned for the iPhone role but was told I looked too much like a pink RAZR. :D
(Knew I shouldn't have spent so much time in the sun that day)

Hahahaha... :p.... Oh... Priceless.

[CKtoph]

Come on MR! I'm sure you guys can get a live blog going too :D

I gave up on the ilife site for now.

[byttle]

I don't know if someone has already posted about this, but if you type "wwdc" into apple's search, the text that comes up is "WWDC 08' A Landmark event in more ways than one", the part 'in more ways than one' kinda makes my heart skip a beat.

[arn]

Come on MR! I'm sure you guys can get a live blog going too :D

I gave up on the ilife site for now.

Sadly, not located in NYC. If someone out there is willing to run down there and send in pix, I'd gladly post them, and we can handle the traffic.

arn

[zync]

Man, as a videographer, I'd love to be on that crew. :)

Seriously! I'm an animator, but I'd even PA that shoot for free.

[LVdustin]

How long do commercials usually take to air from when they are created? A couple weeks maybe? I mean you need to shoot it, then it's all post from there, and then buying TV time...Even with the the speculation of a 3G iPhone coming, this would be the time to start shooting commercials for the later months to come. Justin Long used to post blogs of him doing his Mac commercials until Apple said to stop it, but he said, he would be in the studio doing 3-4 different commercial shoots, and he would see them on the Apple site and sometimes the television within that 3-5 week period. And since it seems like they are doing on-location basic shooting, the post-editing shouldn't be to time consuming.

[kgeier82]

out with it already jobs. We all know its coming, you are wasting precious fiscal days :)

better meet that quota :)

Any chance the commercial could film tomorrow? I know nothing about commercial-making...

How long do commercials usually take to air from when they are created? A couple weeks maybe? I mean you need to shoot it, then it's all post from there, and then buying TV time...Even with the the speculation of a 3G iPhone coming, this would be the time to start shooting commercials for the later months to come. Justin Long used to post blogs of him doing his Mac commercials until Apple said to stop it, but he said, he would be in the studio doing 3-4 different commercial shoots, and he would see them on the Apple site and sometimes the television within that 3-5 week period. And since it seems like they are doing on-location basic shooting, the post-editing shouldn't be to time consuming.

I bet apple already owns the airtime they want for the next 2-3months, easy.

[MegaMan1311]

I'm thinking that the iPhone 3G launch / announcement is tomorrow. Apple doesn't do this for a normal commercial...

EDIT: if anyone wants it, I have gotten to the theilife.com. I gotten all of the updates that were before the 503 errors, but I don't have any recent ones.

6:31 PM Sidney is off from work and en-route (via Subway) to the 5th Ave store.
7:30 PM Sidney is on the scene confirming that it is indeed commercial- there are booms and a Genie outside the store. He says that lighting is being setup to highlight the Cube and elevator.
7:37 PM Sidney has confirmed that there is filming going on in the store. Director chairs and people mingling around the tables. All computers have the Leopard aurora desktop background showing with no menubar or icons.
7:39 PM He can see into the Apple Store, and there are iPhone tables with cardboard around them. Most of the people are congregating around the iPhone tables. The cardboard is very eerie, very Apple, he notes.
7:52 PM The crew outside is discussing ways to get into the store, appears to be looking at a floorplan.
7:56 PM “I recognize the 5th Ave HR Manager standing outside the store. She is dressed well and clearly happy about this event.”
7:58 PM More lights are being setup around the outside of the Cube.
8:08 PM “Crews are all talking through radios. I wish I had a frequency scanner right now!”
8:11 PM The crews are hooking into the Fire Hydrant now. What the heck!?
8:33 PM BLACK CASES MARKED “Anonymous 5+4″ entering store. Picture to come.

[Mr Maui]

out with it already jobs. We all know its coming, you are wasting precious fiscal days :)

better meet that quota :)

Any chance the commercial could film tomorrow? I know nothing about commercial-making...

Film tomorrow? Do you mean air tomorrow? Or continue with the actual filming tomorrow?

Answers: No it cannot air tomorrow and yes, it could still film tomorrow if something does not go right tonight, but highly unlikely. Most commercials are shot in 2-10 hours depending on the complexity. And that includes setup and takedown.

[mmoosa]

This is whats been happening so far...if anyone can't get onto ilife

6:31 PM Sidney is off from work and en-route (via Subway) to the 5th Ave store.
7:30 PM Sidney is on the scene confirming that it is indeed commercial- there are booms and a Genie outside the store. He says that lighting is being setup to highlight the Cube and elevator.
7:37 PM Sidney has confirmed that there is filming going on in the store. Director chairs and people mingling around the tables. All computers have the Leopard aurora desktop background showing with no menubar or icons.
7:39 PM He can see into the Apple Store, and there are iPhone tables with cardboard around them. Most of the people are congregating around the iPhone tables. The cardboard is very eerie, very Apple, he notes.
7:52 PM The crew outside is discussing ways to get into the store, appears to be looking at a floorplan.
7:56 PM “I recognize the 5th Ave HR Manager standing outside the store. She is dressed well and clearly happy about this event.”
7:58 PM More lights are being setup around the outside of the Cube.
8:08 PM “Crews are all talking through radios. I wish I had a frequency scanner right now!”
8:11 PM The crews are hooking into the Fire Hydrant now. What the heck!?
8:33 PM BLACK CASES MARKED “Anonymous 5+4″ entering store. Picture to come

[berkleeboy210]

I don't know if someone has already posted about this, but if you type "wwdc" into apple's search, the text that comes up is "WWDC 08' A Landmark event in more ways than one", the part 'in more ways than one' kinda makes my heart skip a beat.

I just caught that as well.

[surfer99]

Sadly, not located in NYC. If someone out there is willing to run down there and send in pix, I'd gladly post them, and we can handle the traffic.

arn

Just out of curiosity where are you located?

[LVdustin]

I think we should all focus on the 5+4 you guys. There is always mini clues about certain products. Woz used to pull that stuff all the time. You get the real truth of 5+4 and you go from there. I remeber earlier seeing a post about something relating a 9 to looking like a g. C'mon peeps, who knows, it might be something worthwhile. :apple::cool::p

[kgeier82]

Film tomorrow? Do you mean air tomorrow? Or continue with the actual filming tomorrow?

Answers: No it cannot air tomorrow and yes, it could still film tomorrow if something does not go right tonight, but highly unlikely. Most commercials are shot in 2-10 hours depending on the complexity. And that includes setup and takedown.


no Air tomorrow, not film. Just not real familiar with the filming/editing process is all...

crossed fingers waiting for tomorrow :) or tuesday.

It makes sense to me to release the phone, with 1.1.5 firmware BEFORE wwdc. Then @ WWDC make the 2.0 out, and give developers what they want..

I think we should all focus on the 5+4 you guys. There is always mini clues about certain products. Woz used to pull that stuff all the time. You get the real truth of 5+4 and you go from there. I remeber earlier seeing a post about something relating a 9 to looking like a g. C'mon peeps, who knows, it might be something worthwhile.


4 and 5 could correspond to the prices of current phones? 400$ and 500$? :) or maybe a 4" diag. screen, and a 5"

[Mr Maui]

I don't know if someone has already posted about this, but if you type "wwdc" into apple's search, the text that comes up is "WWDC 08' A Landmark event in more ways than one", the part 'in more ways than one' kinda makes my heart skip a beat.

I just caught that as well.

Where are you guys seeing this?

[Mr Maui]

no Air tomorrow, not film. Just not real familiar with the filming/editing process is all....

I've been an actor in commercials and have never seen one air the day after it was shot. Though with modern technology, I supposed anything "could" be possible, albeit highly unlikely.

[arn]

Just out of curiosity where are you located?

Richmond, VA

arn

[MegaMan1311]

If you search WWDC at apple.com, you get the following phrase.

A landmark event in more ways then one.

landmark... Could it mean the 5th avenue store?

[matperk]

If you search WWDC at apple.com, you get the following phrase.

A landmark event in more ways then one.

landmark... Could it mean the 5th avenue store?

Now that's a stretch...

and what would it mean?!

[MegaMan1311]

no Air tomorrow, not film. Just not real familiar with the filming/editing process is all...

crossed fingers waiting for tomorrow :) or tuesday.

It makes sense to me to release the phone, with 1.1.5 firmware BEFORE wwdc. Then @ WWDC make the 2.0 out, and give developers what they want..




4 and 5 could correspond to the prices of current phones? 400$ and 500$? :) or maybe a 4" diag. screen, and a 5"
I think you've got it. Well, at least it is the best idea yet. 5+4 corresponds with the price of the phone it contains (and thus the flash drive size). $500 and $400.

[Phormic]

8:08 PM “Crews are all talking through radios. I wish I had a frequency scanner right now!”

What do you think they'd be saying?

"Hey Joe, can you confirm colours. Over."

"Confirm white, black and red models. Over."

"Is there a recessed headphone jack?"

Or do you think it would be more along the lines of, "Hey a need a longer power cord over here!"

[ski2moro]

I think we should all focus on the 5+4 you guys. There is always mini clues about certain products. Woz used to pull that stuff all the time. You get the real truth of 5+4 and you go from there. I remeber earlier seeing a post about something relating a 9 to looking like a g. C'mon peeps, who knows, it might be something worthwhile. :apple::cool::p

Then, there is the clue from the new Sydney store sign - DROP IN SOON.

[extraextra]

I don't know if someone has already posted about this, but if you type "wwdc" into apple's search, the text that comes up is "WWDC 08' A Landmark event in more ways than one", the part 'in more ways than one' kinda makes my heart skip a beat.

Isn;t that old news? (http://blogs.computerworld.com/wwdc_2008_a_landmark_event_in_more_ways_than_one)

[kgeier82]

If you search WWDC at apple.com, you get the following phrase.

A landmark event in more ways then one.

landmark... Could it mean the 5th avenue store?

20$ says apple gives the 5th the iphone 12 hrs earlier than any other store, just to tape the drama...


they may be setting up to release it tommorow, and gonna tape initial reactions for commercial purposes?

[xbigman15x]

I think we should all focus on the 5+4 you guys. There is always mini clues about certain products. Woz used to pull that stuff all the time. You get the real truth of 5+4 and you go from there. I remeber earlier seeing a post about something relating a 9 to looking like a g. C'mon peeps, who knows, it might be something worthwhile. :apple::cool::p

5+4=9 WWDC is on the 9th of june? Perhaps it simply means what is in the box is unknown to anyone until the ninth. I highly doubt that it means 39 and 9 looks like a g, that is pushing it.

[zync]

Um..... Soho is quite a walk from Midtown, I would say 2.0 to 2.5 hours (metro would take a solid 25 minutes depending on track traffic). I live on 57th and 9th which takes a good 20 minutes just to walk to the apple store on 58th and 5th. Remember you also have the store in the Meat Packing District too.

I was thinking that. I went on my honeymoon to NYC and we went to both. It was like a 15-20 minute subway ride, and I don't believe we took the local.

[TedB]

I don't know if someone has already posted about this, but if you type "wwdc" into apple's search, the text that comes up is "WWDC 08' A Landmark event in more ways than one", the part 'in more ways than one' kinda makes my heart skip a beat.

WWDC was announced this year on March 13th, which depicts this slogan and 2 golden gate bridges.
http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/13/wwdc-2008-kicks-off-june-9th-for-mac-iphone-devs/

No new news, but m.eh, it is something that many probably overlooked.

[Mr Maui]

If you search WWDC at apple.com, you get the following phrase.

A landmark event in more ways then one.

landmark... Could it mean the 5th avenue store?

I searched and don't get that.

EDIT: Nevermind. Thanks.

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2008/03/wwdc2008.jpg

It's the "in more ways than one" that is interesting. The landmark part strikes me less.

[davekarn]

5+4=9 WWDC is on the 9th of june? Perhaps it simply means what is in the box is unknown to anyone until the ninth. I highly doubt that it means 39 and 9 looks like a g, that is pushing it.

Ahh you beat me to it...that's what I was assuming that it was implying, eluding to it's release on the 9th.

~Dave

[mdodd]

Hey guys! I am terribly sorry for the website, obviously the news spread across the internet, and our servers have taken a hard beating. We intend on being back as soon as possible, however the liveblogging may be over at that point. Thanks to all who visited, sorry we couldn't stay up through the whole event!

[LVdustin]

I think it might mean june 9th, that is my best guess...there is nine letters though in the word anonymous, but I am trying to do all these calculations, and nothing really is coming to mind. June 9th might be the best bet. the $400 + $500 pricing doesn't seem to fit in with the 4+5 really, but that is just me. As for the WWDC thing, with the landmarks. That could be anything, Apple stores are Landmarks whereever you put them, why would the 5th ave. store be any different...I know, I know, it's a pretty unique store. But who knows.

[HkyGrL2]

what a tease!!
I bet this was done on purpose!! argh!

[steve1staf]

9:33 PM Sidney has to leave as his iPhone has die; the liveblog is over. The servers are being pounded from traffic from all over; including AppleInsider and MacRumors. Thanks to all who have visited!!

[Chrisrokc]

5+4=9 WWDC is on the 9th of june? Perhaps it simply means what is in the box is unknown to anyone until the ninth. I highly doubt that it means 39 and 9 looks like a g, that is pushing it.

Yea, people are looking into this way too much. 5+4 = 9. 9 is the day in june.

[TedB]

Hey guys! I am terribly sorry for the website, obviously the news spread across the internet, and our servers have taken a hard beating. We intend on being back as soon as possible, however the liveblogging may be over at that point. Thanks to all who visited, sorry we couldn't stay up through the whole event!

Well would you mind posting the liveblog notes here as they happen until your servers recover? It would help all of us out alot.

[msizzle64]

i was able to get the ilife to load a bit. here are a few more pics

[zync]

Exactly.

Given the fact we're 11 days out from the Stevenote, I highly doubt it's an iPhone 3G spot. Assuming they're really releasing one on June 9, any associated spot is already in the can, edited and ready for broadcast.

MAYBE they're shooting a spot focused on their retail store offerings.
That could be both interesting & welcome.

We shot a five minute film over a weekend. It was telecined to HD, edited, color corrected, had minor animation in shake, and delivered before the next weekend. It's definitely possible. Would they do another one for the iPhone though? That I don't know. Maybe, since they did one for Leopard.

[CKtoph]

Weak sauce! I tell ya. The iLife blogger left :( Apparently his iphone ran out of batteries.

[xbigman15x]

"9:33 PM Sidney has to leave as his iPhone has die; the liveblog is over. The servers are being pounded from traffic from all over; including AppleInsider and MacRumors. Thanks to all who have visited!!"

Lulz, just think how bad it is going to be when we are here in a similar spot waiting for the new iphone with the 3G iphone using up battery even quicker. It was fun while it lasted. Is there seriously no one near the 5th Avenue store that can supply some pics and news to MR?

[mdodd]

Well would you mind posting the liveblog notes here as they happen until your servers recover? It would help all of us out alot.

Sidney just called me from a payphone to inform me that his iPhone died. This was totally unexpected, as I called him an hour before he was leaving work to go over and check it out. We are really sorry we couldn't provide more!

[msizzle64]

oh no!

9:33 PM Sidney has to leave as his iPhone has die; the liveblog is over. The servers are being pounded from traffic from all over; including AppleInsider and MacRumors. Thanks to all who have visited!!

[boxgamex]

I think you've got it. Well, at least it is the best idea yet. 5+4 corresponds with the price of the phone it contains (and thus the flash drive size). $500 and $400.


doesn't seem like it..

8:33 PM More black cases marked “Anonymous 4+3″ entering store.

[Mr Maui]

I think it might mean june 9th, that is my best guess...there is nine letters though in the word anonymous, but I am trying to do all these calculations, and nothing really is coming to mind. June 9th might be the best bet. the $400 + $500 pricing doesn't seem to fit in with the 4+5 really, but that is just me. As for the WWDC thing, with the landmarks. That could be anything, Apple stores are Landmarks whereever you put them, why would the 5th ave. store be any different...I know, I know, it's a pretty unique store. But who knows.

Maybe they are releasing the 4G and 5G (4 and 5) phones all at once. Of course, you can;t use them for a few years, but at least you'll have them when you can. :D

[mtfield]

i've shot a fair few commercials myself and the typically take 6-10 hours to shoot and then probably a week or two of editing depending on your deadline and post crew... could be sooner if really rushed, which if the money is there than anything is possible. Also "Anonymous 5+4" 5+4=9 as in june 9th? launch date??? :D

[LVdustin]

Maybe they are releasing the 4G and 5G (4 and 5) phones all at once. Of course, you can;t use them for a few years, but at least you'll have them when you can. :D

Apple has always been an adopter of the future for products. Mouse, GUI, Full functional touch-screen phone...I can't even picture 4 & 5g though, that would equal like...3mbps...maybe even more, that would be like compared to DSL or a Cable connection.

[RidleyGriff]

Though the numerology of it all is fun, I think the mysterious black cases may be a bit of an overreach, folks.

Anonymous Content is a commercial/music video production company. One of the directors Anonymous Content works with is David Fincher -- who Apple Insider reports, perhaps not that coincidentally, may be working on an Apple spot.

I think the cases likely just contain some of Anonymous Content's production gear, not any Apple products with coded wording...

[zync]

Why is it EVERY time the good stuff is always captured in blurry pictures. The black cases are blurry and the rest are clear. Oh well.

It's because people take the pictures with their phone, instead of an actual camera.

[IndyJonez]

Yea, people are looking into this way too much. 5+4 = 9. 9 is the day in june.

That's just retarded though, whoopdeedoo, 5+4....:eek:Ooooh SO mysterious!!!

Not bashing your reply by any means but I understand that it could mean the 9th but why not just put uhhh, "9th" or simply "9"?

[Mr Maui]

Apple has always been an adopter of the future for products. Mouse, GUI, Full functional touch-screen phone...I can't even picture 4 & 5g though, that would equal like...3mbps...maybe even more, that would be like compared to DSL or a Cable connection.

With 5G you order your Starbucks coffee through the phone, then stick your straw into the phone and drink. ;)

[Rocketman]

One of the comments here interested me. Given the CONFIRMATION that at least in Australia the iPhone will support 46 mbit per second, what does that constitute? 4G? 5G? Mobile broadband?

Rocketman

[LVdustin]

That's just retarded though, whoopdeedoo, 5+4....:eek:Ooooh SO mysterious!!!

Not bashing your reply by any means but I understand that it could mean the 9th but why not just put uhhh, "9th" or simply "9"?

Because, that's what Apple does, they make things so rediculously retarded, that it's just to the point where it's mysteriously amazing.

[CKtoph]

Looks like tonight's fun is over :(

Anyone want to buy an 8GB iPhone? 100 dolla ;)

[Chrisrokc]

That's just retarded though, whoopdeedoo, 5+4....:eek:Ooooh SO mysterious!!!

Not bashing your reply by any means but I understand that it could mean the 9th but why not just put uhhh, "9th" or simply "9"?

Because your Apple and maybe you only want people that have passed the 1st grade to know when the phone is going to be released. :p

Last update from the blog so everyone can see.

6:31 PM Sidney is off from work and en-route (via Subway) to the 5th Ave store.
7:30 PM Sidney is on the scene confirming that it is indeed commercial- there are booms and a Genie outside the store. He says that lighting is being setup to highlight the Cube and elevator.
7:37 PM Sidney has confirmed that there is filming going on in the store. Director chairs and people mingling around the tables. All computers have the Leopard aurora desktop background showing with no menubar or icons.
7:39 PM He can see into the Apple Store, and there are iPhone tables with cardboard around them. Most of the people are congregating around the iPhone tables. The cardboard is very eerie, very Apple, he notes.
7:52 PM The crew outside is discussing ways to get into the store, appears to be looking at a floorplan.
7:56 PM “I recognize the 5th Ave HR Manager standing outside the store. She is dressed well and clearly happy about this event.”
7:58 PM More lights are being setup around the outside of the Cube.
8:08 PM “Crews are all talking through radios. I wish I had a frequency scanner right now!”
8:11 PM The crews are hooking into the Fire Hydrant now. What the heck!?
8:33 PM BLACK CASES MARKED “Anonymous 5+4″ entering store.
8:33 PM More black cases marked “Anonymous 4+3″ entering store.
9:33 PM Sidney has to leave as his iPhone has died; the liveblog is over. The servers are being pounded from traffic from all over; including AppleInsider and MacRumors. Thanks to all who have visited!!
9:47 PM Almost the entire sidewalk is blocked off on 5th Ave, with the Apple employees pushing the line back as much as possible. Sidney has left for home.

[LVdustin]

Now we have a 4+3...7...wtf does 7 mean now, if that has any value at all.

[Drumjim85]

and "2 + 2 always makes 5"

[Chrisrokc]

Now we have a 4+3...7...wtf does 7 mean now, if that has any value at all.

7/9/2008 - Iphone 3G Release? :(

[flipperanubi]

a

[matperk]

Though the numerology of it all is fun, I think the mysterious black cases may be a bit of an overreach, folks.

Anonymous Content is a commercial/music video production company. One of the directors Anonymous Content works with is David Fincher -- who Apple Insider reports, perhaps not that coincidentally, may be working on an Apple spot.

I think the cases likely just contain some of Anonymous Content's production gear, not any Apple products with coded wording...

That's some good detective work.

[twoodcc]

interesting. can't wait to find out for sure

[InkMaster]

all the images from iLife----


http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/3725/170138img0486400tf2.th.jpg (http://img443.imageshack.us/my.php?image=170138img0486400tf2.jpg) http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/7394/25344126156394286d99cj2.th.jpg (http://img61.imageshack.us/my.php?image=25344126156394286d99cj2.jpg) http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/737/2534414271da16594d64oq9.th.jpg (http://img443.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2534414271da16594d64oq9.jpg) http://img77.imageshack.us/img77/1508/2534415715b4ed14fd8dcu4.th.jpg (http://img77.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2534415715b4ed14fd8dcu4.jpg) http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/1183/2534433885690074c94elz6.th.jpg (http://img338.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2534433885690074c94elz6.jpg) http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/8668/2534436197f4c5ef08a8ov8.th.jpg (http://img338.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2534436197f4c5ef08a8ov8.jpg) http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/2920/2534438433e68fbb37f7bv6.th.jpg (http://img338.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2534438433e68fbb37f7bv6.jpg) http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/457/2534440003115acf226fsb1.th.jpg (http://img338.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2534440003115acf226fsb1.jpg) http://img77.imageshack.us/img77/212/25344475713d181a949b1hx3.th.jpg (http://img77.imageshack.us/my.php?image=25344475713d181a949b1hx3.jpg) http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/8268/25344475713d181a949bap6.th.jpg (http://img50.imageshack.us/my.php?image=25344475713d181a949bap6.jpg) http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/5889/25352017422e41faa0efpg8.th.jpg (http://img133.imageshack.us/my.php?image=25352017422e41faa0efpg8.jpg) http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/1756/2535256034cf24bf721dax7.th.jpg (http://img50.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2535256034cf24bf721dax7.jpg) http://img524.imageshack.us/img524/8008/2535264884aa972737c0wz0.th.jpg (http://img524.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2535264884aa972737c0wz0.jpg) http://img524.imageshack.us/img524/6529/25353220225a4677ff25by2.th.jpg (http://img524.imageshack.us/my.php?image=25353220225a4677ff25by2.jpg)

[Mr Maui]

One of the comments here interested me. Given the CONFIRMATION that at least in Australia the iPhone will support 46 mbit per second, what does that constitute? 4G? 5G? Mobile broadband?

Rocketman

I believe the article you are referring to said that in Australia, their network had 42MB capabilities, not that the iPhone could handle it.

[shrtmkr]

These are the photos I took around 9.30pm it is obviously a commercial shoot going on however no signs of the actual product.

[msizzle64]

7/9/2008 - Iphone 3G Release? :(

thats not a friday :(

[Mr Maui]

Though the numerology of it all is fun, I think the mysterious black cases may be a bit of an overreach, folks.

Anonymous Content is a commercial/music video production company. One of the directors Anonymous Content works with is David Fincher -- who Apple Insider reports, perhaps not that coincidentally, may be working on an Apple spot.

I think the cases likely just contain some of Anonymous Content's production gear, not any Apple products with coded wording...

There's goes our bubbles of speculation!!! :mad:

[Kilamite]

Interesting.

I want more photos!

[gltch486]

Let's face the cold hard truth here, between the speculations, rumors, and the AT&T Memo floating around blacking out vacation time - it all adds up that the iPhone ISN'T coming out on the 9th. Pre-order, maybe; but in stores ready for sale - not happening. The 3G iPhone will hit the stores either June 20th or 27th. I don't see Apple kicking off a new product on Friday the 13th - especially one with so much hype built up around it.

I don't think Steve woke up and said "Let's watch the forums and bloggers go nuts." Doesn't fit his style in my opinion. More than likely they're working on a commercial for the iPhone or the new MacBook's and MacBook Pro's (as they have been rumored for redesign - though it does seem too early).

As someone stated earlier, they could be working on a clip for Steve to play at WWDC - this seems logical, but rather suspicious as to why they're doing it now, kinda late in the process.

:apple:

[InkMaster]

These are the photos I took around 9.30pm it is obviously a commercial shoot going on however no signs of the actual product.

GO BACK AND KEEP SHOOTING!!!! :D

[Mr Maui]

Interesting.

I want more photos!

Sounds like they are working to keep people away now. Must be time to pull out the products.

[kgeier82]

is it me, or does apple not actually own the sidewalk? if not, id tell them to let me by, its tax payer owned. :)

[Mr Maui]

As someone stated earlier, they could be working on a clip for Steve to play at WWDC - this seems logical, but rather suspicious as to why they're doing it now, kinda late in the process.

That would be me (patting self on back) ... LOL

[InkMaster]

Sounds like they are working to keep people away now. Must be time to pull out the products.

I PROPOSE ALL THE MACRUMORS/APPLEINSIDER/ILIFE etc... READERS WHO LIVE IN NY JUST STORM THE APPLE STORE!!!!

[LVdustin]

is it me, or does apple not actually own the sidewalk? if not, id tell them to let me by, its tax payer owned. :)

For all we know...Apple owns, YOUR sidewalk.

[Wass]

doesn't seem like it..

8:33 PM More black cases marked “Anonymous 4+3″ entering store.

Did anyone know that "Anonymous 4" is a well known female vocal group?
Really:)

[rdrr]

and "2 + 2 always makes 5"

How did you know? for extremely large values of two they do (http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/sciencemath/60f5/zoom/)


:p

[Mr Maui]

is it me, or does apple not actually own the sidewalk? if not, id tell them to let me by, its tax payer owned. :)

I'm certain the production crew got a permit from the city, and PAID nicely for it, which allows them to close off the sidewalk during the shoot, around the area they are filming. It happens all the time. The city controls the sidewalks and will gladly give them up to someone willing to pay for them.

[w0ngbr4d]

With all the taller buildings around, someone with access to a high vantage point and a decent camera should be able to get some decent pictures of what's going on.

Apple employees can't stop that.

[newyorksole]

Wish I was there, errrrr

[themiracle]

I think we should all focus on the 5+4 you guys. There is always mini clues about certain products. Woz used to pull that stuff all the time. You get the real truth of 5+4 and you go from there. I remeber earlier seeing a post about something relating a 9 to looking like a g. C'mon peeps, who knows, it might be something worthwhile. :apple::cool::p
5+4=9 WWDC is on the 9th of june? Perhaps it simply means what is in the box is unknown to anyone until the ninth. I highly doubt that it means 39 and 9 looks like a g, that is pushing it.

The unknown till June 9th thing seems likely. There's also a 3 between 5 and 4. Who knows..

[CKtoph]

Let's face the cold hard truth here, between the speculations, rumors, and the AT&T Memo floating around blacking out vacation time - it all adds up that the iPhone ISN'T coming out on the 9th. Pre-order, maybe; but in stores ready for sale - not happening. The 3G iPhone will hit the stores either June 20th or 27th. I don't see Apple kicking off a new product on Friday the 13th - especially one with so much hype built up around it.

:apple:

I agree that the 3G iPhone probably won't be released for purchase on the 9th. But, I do think it will hit the stores by the week after (16th). Remember the AT&T employee block outs?

AT&T Blocking Out June (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/05/06/atandt-blocking-out-june-15-july-12-for-3g-iphone-launch/)

[nintendude]

We should bribe/blackmail the employees to get us in or else, if you know what I am saying:cool:..........

[Adisah]

Hey guys! I am terribly sorry for the website, obviously the news spread across the internet, and our servers have taken a hard beating. We intend on being back as soon as possible, however the liveblogging may be over at that point. Thanks to all who visited, sorry we couldn't stay up through the whole event!

That'd be cool if y'all updated via twitter. Anywas, thanks for all the info. and the effort.

[Drumjim85]

How did you know? for extremely large values of two they do (http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/sciencemath/60f5/zoom/)


:p

Wow, you totally ruined that quote...

[rdrr]

OMG! 9!

"Steve Jobs" is nine characters!!! :eek: and 5 + 4! Its him in the cases.

[LVdustin]

OMG! 9!

"Steve Jobs" is nine characters!!! :eek: and 5 + 4! Its him in the cases.

So is Anonymous...

[Mr Maui]

OMG! 9!

"Steve Jobs" is nine characters!!! :eek: and 5 + 4! Its him in the cases.

Nah ...

It's just "parts" of him. :eek:

So is Anonymous...

Anonymous is "9" (one word) ... Steve Jobs is "5" (first word) + "4" (second word)

[Baffles]

The unknown till June 9th thing seems likely. There's also a 3 between 5 and 4. Who knows..

There is? Where?

[MXChristian11]

Where are you guys seeing this?

It says this because WWDC is mainly focused on mac software. But because of iPhone 2.0, the event is dealing with more than one thing. (Mac+iPhone)
Idk, just some speculation. Can't wait to see what happends!!

[mdodd]

That'd be cool if y'all updated via twitter. Anywas, thanks for all the info. and the effort.

Thank you, you're welcome. Definitely will consider it alongside the website next time!

[Chrisrokc]

OMG! 9!

"Steve Jobs" is nine characters!!! :eek: and 5 + 4! Its him in the cases.

Are you telling me they cut up Steve Jobs!?! LOL

[shrtmkr]

GO BACK AND KEEP SHOOTING!!!! :D

film crew is trying to keep everyone off the sidewalk, I will go out to take a walk around midnite.Will keep you guys posted

[Mr Maui]

film crew is trying to keep everyone off the sidewalk, I will go out to take a walk around midnite.Will keep you guys posted

They started at 3 p.m. ... Could be over by midnight.

[zync]

How long do commercials usually take to air from when they are created? A couple weeks maybe? I mean you need to shoot it, then it's all post from there, and then buying TV time...Even with the the speculation of a 3G iPhone coming, this would be the time to start shooting commercials for the later months to come. Justin Long used to post blogs of him doing his Mac commercials until Apple said to stop it, but he said, he would be in the studio doing 3-4 different commercial shoots, and he would see them on the Apple site and sometimes the television within that 3-5 week period. And since it seems like they are doing on-location basic shooting, the post-editing shouldn't be to time consuming.

You basically answered your own question. But there's some elaboration possible, so here I go.

It takes relatively little time to do most commercials. Many of ours are done within the week. Of course, that's minus the planning time. The major limiting factor is the client. If they're an easy client they finish quickly. We've shot longer form stuff that's absolutely beautiful and it's gone out in a week. We've shot beautiful commercials that end up taking forever to get approval on. I'd think that Apple is a client that's expecting a lot of quality, but they probably assign someone to sit in on the edit who can get quick approval from whoever needs to approve it. They probably also don't have their own politics to get in the way. There's probably only one or two people that need to see it before it's done.

Basically, it can be done in anywhere from a few days to months.

[rdrr]

Are you telling me they cut up Steve Jobs!?! LOL


Maybe its like the case in Pulp Fiction.

[CKtoph]

film crew is trying to keep everyone off the sidewalk, I will go out to take a walk around midnite.Will keep you guys posted

You, my friend, are a trooper! Make sure your iPhone is fully charged :p

[zub3qin]

film crew is trying to keep everyone off the sidewalk, I will go out to take a walk around midnite.Will keep you guys posted


Midnight is too late!
gotta get in there now!

why is apple filming in the 5th Ave store? makes no sense. They could recreate the store on a soundstage in LA - or use their Pixar friends....
It would be far more controlled, secure, and perhaps cheaper than this brouhaha.

This has to be some internal thing, or a movie shoot.......

[LVdustin]

Even though this is the 3G topic...I am actually more excited for the Apps than 3G. Especially since my phone isn't even a year old yet, and it's not even up to the possibilities of what it's capable of...Oh the joy if 3G was somehow already in our existing phones, just like what they did when they released the Macbook Pro's that had the 802.11n in there, and all you needed was an enabler...

[shrtmkr]

They started at 3 p.m. ... Could be over by midnight.


Its really a tourist jungle around apple store today like everyday :), it's been a loong day, I don't think I can handle a mass of people until I chill for couple of hours.


BTW
there is also something going on inside Tiffany&Co.(one block away) like a celebrity sight, since there is a ton of tourist trying to get pictures of inside. It can be a movie setting too.

I couldn't spend much time to take pictures, you know trying to get home from work

[CKtoph]

They started at 3 p.m. ... Could be over by midnight.

My guess is that they'll try to sneak in the majority of the actual shooting closer to the late night/early morning hours when there will be a lot less people floating about poking around. I'm assuming that the majority of the time starting from 3pm was setting up for the filming. While the actual filming doesn't take nearly as long. I could be wrong, what do I know about shooting a commercial? :p

They do have the store closed until 9am :p

[Chris Stroud]

Midnight is too late!
gotta get in there now!

why is apple filming in the 5th Ave store? makes no sense. They could recreate the store on a soundstage in LA - or use their Pixar friends....
It would be far more controlled, secure, and perhaps cheaper than this brouhaha.

This has to be some internal thing, or a movie shoot.......


Dude, they own Pixar lol

[Mr Maui]

Its really a tourist jungle around apple store today like everyday :), it's been a loong day, I don't think I can handle a mass of people until I chill for couple of hours.

No worries. I was just letting you know that midnight may offer nothing.

... and then again ... who knows. Take a good camera with a big lens.

[Rustus Maximus]

Are you telling me they cut up Steve Jobs!?! LOL

No no no...they are going to assemble him. The stuff in the '4+3' cases is the RDF device.

[Mr Maui]

Dude, they own Pixar lol

iPhone ... the movie. See it in theaters soon!!

[themiracle]

You, my friend, are a trooper! Make sure your iPhone is fully charged :p

If only Sidney had a replaceable battery in his iPhone :-/

[eddietr]

film crew is trying to keep everyone off the sidewalk, I will go out to take a walk around midnite.Will keep you guys posted

Midnight! This could all be over by midnight! The 4G might be out by midnight. Aliens could descend onto the cube with a payload of nextgen iPhones and be gone by midnight!

What the hell are you doing between now and midnight that is so important???

:p

[Chris Stroud]

iPhone ... the movie. See it in theaters soon!!

don't forget to add "in iMax 3D lol" maybe they will make a trilogy... it could out sell Star Wars and Jurassic Park lol

[Van Wildonher]

Hmm cats have 9 lives, and tigers, leopards, etc. are just big cats.

[Mr Maui]

Midnight! This could all be over by midnight! The 4G might be out by midnight. Aliens could descend onto the cube with a payload of nextgen iPhones and be gone by midnight!

What the hell are you doing between now and midnight that is so important???

:p

I believe he said he was resting. Not in the mood to fight the crowds and security.

[Van Wildonher]

What the hell are you doing between now and midnight that is so important???

:p

EXACTLY!!! Get your priorities straight man!

[zync]

Or do you think it would be more along the lines of, "Hey a need a longer power cord over here!"

Stinger. :)

Even if you had a scanner, you'd have to know all sorts of lingo just to understand.

[Mr Maui]

don't forget to add "in iMax 3D lol" maybe they will make a trilogy... it could out sell Star Wars and Jurassic Park lol

The movie and its sequels.

iPhone ... the movie.

IPhone 2 ... the 3G experience!

iPhone 3 ... Who uses these for calls anymore? :rolleyes:

[arn]

BTW
there is also something going on inside Tiffany&Co.(one block away) like a celebrity sight, since there is a ton of tourist trying to get pictures of inside. It can be a movie setting too.


Maybe the Apple Store shoot is all a decoy, and they are really filming at Tiffany@Co. :)

arn

[imacericg]

I doubt its for the 3G iPhone. Why would they use the Apple Store as a backdrop for a phone? I think the key feature of the iPhone is its a moble computer in your hand wherever you go. Seems to me like an ad in an Apple Store doesn't relate.

I could see it relating to the Apps Store. Something like "all of this, in your phone".

Or even the tablet mac? Maybe the actor takes the cinema display off the table and starts using multi-touch on it?

Just guesses here, but an iPhone commercial in a Apple Store doesn't add up to me.

[LVdustin]

Dude, they own Pixar lol

Nahh, Disney bought Pixar from Apple in 2006. That made Steve Jobs on the board of directors on Disney, he is the biggest shareholder of Disney...7% i believe...

[Mr Maui]

Maybe the Apple Store shoot is all a decoy, and the real action is at Tiffany@Co. :)

arn

Well, lately is seems like the iPhone is the jewel in Apple's crown.

[Chris Stroud]

The movie and its sequels.

iPhone ... the movie.

IPhone 2 ... the 3G experience!

iPhone 3 ... Who uses these for calls anymore? :rolleyes:

Maybe there is a Quicktime trailer that we have thus far overlooked....

Nahh, Disney bought Pixar from Apple in 2006. That made Steve Jobs on the board of directors on Disney, he is the biggest shareholder of Disney...7% i believe...

oh well, I didn't see anyone else bring all that up lol. That was a while back but it doesn't really feel like it was that long ago to me.