Time of iPhone 3G Launch Remains Unclear

[MacRumors]

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

Unconfirmed reports (http://www.boygeniusreport.com/2008/06/24/iphone-3g-to-launch-at-8am-on-july-11th/) claim that the U.S. iPhone launch will take place starting at 8AM at AT&T stores nationwide. A screenshot (http://forums.macrumors.com/showpost.php?p=5649419&postcount=11) posted to our forums claims to depict the actual email sent to AT&T managers. Even if you accept the letter as true, it's not entirely certain that the 8AM time was sanctioned by Apple. When the iPhone first launched in 2007, there were multiple reports of AT&T stores planning on opening first thing in the morning, only later to find out the actual launch time was 6pm.

Apple's own retail stores have not yet been briefed on the exact launch time of the iPhone 3G, though it had been previously suggested that it would again happen at 6pm.

Apple is expected to brief their retail stores on July 6th regarding both the iPhone 3G and MobileMe, so more details should be available after that time.

Article Link (http://www.macrumors.com/2008/06/25/time-of-iphone-3g-launch-remains-unclear/)

[sunfast]

The uncertainty of timings seems odd to me. Surely clear information has to be the way forward - I'm awfully surprised if they are still yet to decide

[Chundles]

Don't know what time, don't know what price, don't know diddly squat.

[DMann]

It would make more sense to make it at 6:00 PM (productivity would take a big hit due to absenteeism if launched in the AM)

[arn]

It would make more sense to make it at 6:00 PM (productivity would take a big hit due to absenteeism if launched in the AM)

Apple's pretty consistently launches products (OS X, iPhone) at 6pm, so I would think it would hold true for this. Especially since it seems it will be an "event" release with a set launch day on a Friday.

arn

[queshy]

does 5 hours really matter anyways? Think about how much time we will have AFTER it gets released, haha.

[clarkysdonga]

Those in Australia can expect to be the first ones with it!

[theappleguy]

Those in Australia can expect to be the first ones with it!


Not quite right. If it is the same local time in each timezone, it will be New Zealand. ;)

http://www.maccrazy.net/2008/06/25/new-zealand-to-get-iphone-first/
http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/25/iphone-3g-on-sale-in-new-zealand-a-day-before-the-us/

[aswitcher]

does 5 hours really matter anyways? Think about how much time we will have AFTER it gets released, haha.

Fine by me, good luck if supply doesn't meet demand to when you join the queue? ;)

[yyy]

Those in Australia can expect to be the first ones with it!

Actually, New Zealand will be the first (http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/25/iphone-3g-on-sale-in-new-zealand-a-day-before-the-us/), but does it really matter? Some people don't even know when and if the iPhone ever going to be released in the country they live in. They'll have to pay triple only to get an iPhone with no warranty or insurance whatsoever.

[clarkysdonga]

Actually, New Zealand will be the first (http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/25/iphone-3g-on-sale-in-new-zealand-a-day-before-the-us/), but does it really matter? Some people don't even know when and if the iPhone ever going to be released in the country they live in. They'll have to pay triple only to get an iPhone with no warranty or insurance whatsoever.

Notice how I said, first ONES? not THE FIRST ONE!

Cant wait still...

[thecritix]

I'd launch it at the time of day that hits Cupertino first.

That way the focal point is on Apple headquaters rather than some backwater in the southern hemisphere.

[johnnyjibbs]

6pm would be great for the UK (I think that was the case for the November iPhone UK launch). I finish work on a Friday at 5pm so would have ample time to get to an O2 store - I think my nearest one is Notting Hill Gate, which would hopefully be less busy that Oxford Street!

[mucker29]

if they are requiring in-store activations this time around, it only makes sense to open earlier to allow more time to complete the activation process. that is unless they plan on staying open until the wee hours of the morning...

[queshy]

Fine by me, good luck if supply doesn't meet demand to when you join the queue? ;)

For me, it depends on how badly rogers decides to screw everyone over. If they pull their usual stunts, there won't be any queue at all :P

[imwoblin]

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)

I'll be watching this from the sidelines this go around, not waiting in line as I did for my 1.0 on launch day last year, I'm almost certain there will be plenty of iPhones for each store, so since Im still on the fence about upgrading, I'll just pop in to the store the next day, learned my lesson after standing on line for 6 hours last year. The real question is what time is Appple going to release the software update and the app store?

[Chic0]

know I probably going to get slated for this, but is this really so important thats it page 1 news?:confused:

I mean for sake of few hours or whatever, who cares........

[clarkysdonga]

I'd launch it at the time of day that hits Cupertino first.

That way the focal point is on Apple headquaters rather than some backwater in the southern hemisphere.

Backwater? Australia deserves it first after having to wait this long. And since it is the best country in the world it makes sense to put focus on the launch here. ;)

I love the Apple website, 'The wait is over'.......July 11th. Is it me or is it not July 11th yet so we are still waiting?

[michaelsviews]

Not quite right. If it is the same local time in each timezone, it will be New Zealand. ;)

http://www.maccrazy.net/2008/06/25/new-zealand-to-get-iphone-first/
http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/25/iphone-3g-on-sale-in-new-zealand-a-day-before-the-us/

I thought I read somewhere that Australia's getting them first and before the end of June. :eek:

I will say that after talkiing to business sales for AT&T the latest email they have in house is that activation is done through I tunes, and that they have not been sent anything else. The most the rep can do in store is verify that your qualified for an upgrade of equipment and if they scan the IMEI number into the system as your primary phone I believe that would disable your current device.

I will say that business sales has not mislead me or screwed me before so I'll go with what they say ..................

Personally I don't think there's going to be enough to go around on the initial release

[ashjamben]

so as long as the launch time is the same in all countries, USA will actually be the last to get the iphone? in fact, apple hq in Cupertino will officially be one of the last places to get it (i think hawaii, alaska and vancouver in canada will be after it)

[mwazowski]

I thought I read somewhere that Australia's getting them first and before the end of June. :eek:

I will say that after talkiing to business sales for AT&T the latest email they have in house is that activation is done through I tunes, and that they have not been sent anything else. The most the rep can do in store is verify that your qualified for an upgrade of equipment and if they scan the IMEI number into the system as your primary phone I believe that would disable your current device.

I will say that business sales has not mislead me or screwed me before so I'll go with what they say ..................

Personally I don't think there's going to be enough to go around on the initial release

All retail stores in the silicon valley have a mandatory meeting on july 6 at 7:30-9:30 pm. July 11 has been blocked off for day off request. Schedule shows everyone working but duty is blank. From what I've seen in the back so far, it goes as:
-6pm launch time
-phone will be activated at the apple store and at&t. iphone can be taken home to activate from the apple store. At&t WILL hassle you to activate it at the store. We do not want to train our employees to activate the phone or hire at&t employees to activate the phone in store.
-June29 (sunday meeting date) within retail stores from 7:30pm-9:30pm to talk about the iphone within the store (if you don't believe me stay after mall hours and watch the floor. they will surround inside and have a meeting).

no pictures, no proof. but i said it and i will quote once the date pass. just a friendly heads up.

[yyy]

Notice how I said, first ONES? not THE FIRST ONE!

Cant wait still...

Right, I missed the "s" in "ones".

[matt archbold]

I really think they should open their doors early in the morning. With the new activation procedures, it will take a while to get thru all those in line on release day. For the first one, it was just a pay and go. Now its sign a contract, activate the phone, pay and THEN go. If they started again around 6pm, i could see it being a looooong night for some.

Just my opinion.

[lonepilgrim]

Apple is expected to brief their retail stores on July 6th regarding both the iPhone 3G and MobileMe, so more details should be available after that time.
Why don't you just wait until then, instead of wasting all this time speculating now, and perpetuating all of these pointless rumours?

If misinformation is being spread, it's only being spread by the likes of this site. When Apple and/or its partners are ready to announce the details, I'm sure they will do so in a clear and consistent way.

You guys are just making yourselves look silly at the moment. And this certainly isn't page 1 news.

[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'd launch it at the time of day that hits Cupertino first.

That way the focal point is on Apple headquaters rather than some backwater in the southern hemisphere.

That's the problem with being in the western time zone in the western hemisphere, almost everyone gets to a particular time before you do. There is no way to find a time that occurs first at Apple headquarters.

[bbplayer5]

It will be in the morning due to the new registration process AT&T is doing. They will sell out if they open early and sell early... they will not have time to sell out if they open at 6.

Thats the fact Jack.

[wonderkid]

A year ago, the hype was understandable - Apple had launched a product with one key revolutionary innovation - the multi-touch interface. It is a year later, and the new iPhone: a) Lacks real 3G of the speeds we obtain in Europe - up to 7.2Mbs (vital for all that multimedia content!) b) A decent camera (my Nokia N95 8G shoots amazing still and video footage and this is useful, no just fun.) c) The rear of the phone lacks the quality of the original. (Plastic is understandable for signal level reasons but there is not even a cover for the camera lens.) d) There is no stereo bluetooth - yet it is a music device. e) Related: Unless you're stranded at home, the airport or a coffee shop, you cannot even do wireless content downloads - something I can do on my N95 8G. Am not a Nokia fan (have been using Sony Ericsson K800i until last month), but I think the 3G iPhone has created hype way beyond proportion considering it is missing features that have been standard on many phones that have been available for up to 2 years. Anyone who has shot VGA quality moving video will realise how useful and fun this is. And it is perfect for YouTube! I cannot believe, no video recording on the iPhone! And Apple almost invented computer video with QuickTime too.) Yes, the iPhone 3G will sell well and is a joy to use, but is it really as USEFUL as something like the new Nokia E71 (due soon) or some devices from HTC? Thoughts?

[Diode]

Well at least we can look forward to more concrete information on July 6th ....

[GreenFreaK]

I spoke w/ a good friend of mine from an AT&T kiosk in the mall and she said that they are shutting down for 2 hours, 3p-5p on July 11th, before reopening at 6 - when the phone officially goes on sale. It's going to happen at 6 pm (based on her comments and my belief); not to mention I'll be getting out of work at 3 to goto the apple store and queue up!

Although i'm still slightly apprehensive on upgrading... hmm... Some questions remain: will the plastic be as scratchable as on the iPods? How durable is it? Will that extra spacing on the left and right of the screen bother me? :confused:

[daveschroeder]

It will be in the morning due to the new registration process AT&T is doing. They will sell out if they open early and sell early... they will not have time to sell out if they open at 6.

Thats the fact Jack.

No, that's not the fact.

That would make sense, but that also would have made sense last time.

I still haven't managed to get a single AT&T store — including ones others claim have "confirmed" it — to support the 8AM time.

Also, that wasn't a screenshot of the email sent to managers — that was (if true) just an email sent internal to a store...which leads me to think that it's more likely this was a misunderstanding at that one store. They may really be starting early at 8AM, etc., but it's likely for training and launch prep, not that all of AT&T's over 1800 stores across the country, some in retail locations with hours beyond their control, is going to be open at 8AM.

[GutBomb]

Why don't you just wait until then, instead of wasting all this time speculating now, and perpetuating all of these pointless rumours?

If misinformation is being spread, it's only being spread by the likes of this site. When Apple and/or its partners are ready to announce the details, I'm sure they will do so in a clear and consistent way.

You guys are just making yourselves look silly at the moment. And this certainly isn't page 1 news.

You do realize what site you're on right?

[decimortis]

A year ago, the hype was understandable - Apple had launched a product with one key revolutionary innovation - the multi-touch interface. It is a year later, and the new iPhone: a) Lacks real 3G of the speeds we obtain in Europe - up to 7.2Mbs (vital for all that multimedia content!) b) A decent camera (my Nokia N95 8G shoots amazing still and video footage and this is useful, no just fun.) c) The rear of the phone lacks the quality of the original. (Plastic is understandable for signal level reasons but there is not even a cover for the camera lens.) d) There is no stereo bluetooth - yet it is a music device. e) Related: Unless you're stranded at home, the airport or a coffee shop, you cannot even do wireless content downloads - something I can do on my N95 8G. Am not a Nokia fan (have been using Sony Ericsson K800i until last month), but I think the 3G iPhone has created hype way beyond proportion considering it is missing features that have been standard on many phones that have been available for up to 2 years. Anyone who has shot VGA quality moving video will realise how useful and fun this is. And it is perfect for YouTube! I cannot believe, no video recording on the iPhone! And Apple almost invented computer video with QuickTime too.) Yes, the iPhone 3G will sell well and is a joy to use, but is it really as USEFUL as something like the new Nokia E71 (due soon) or some devices from HTC? Thoughts?

While there are quite a few improvements over the iPhone 1.0, I'm inclined to agree with your statement, due to the fact that Apple has always been on the cutting edge of technological innovation. For the iPhone not to have something as simple as video recording, seems like they've rushed this version out the door without stretching before the big game. I have a feeling iPhone 3.0 will be the one that raises the bar, and if Rogers (in Canada) continues to be Rogers, then that's the version I'll have to wait for anyways.

my $0.02

[Shasterball]

You do realize what site you're on right?

It's not page 1 news for sure. Time of release? Come on.

[Stewie]

So why are many of these 3G iPhone 'stories' making Page 1? :confused: Shouldn't reports on unconfirmed or conflicting speculations be on Page 2? This is the reason I don't watch network news anymore. When you try to report on what you have no clue about, it just makes you look foolish. And I am not just picking on MacRumors, most all iPhone/Apple related web sites are doing the same. I am going to have to quit reading them until weeks after the release when everyone can start speaking with intelligence and certainty.

Rumors are one thing buy wild a$$ speculation is another. :mad:

[tivoli2]

Don't know what time, don't know what price, don't know diddly squat.

Don't know, don't care.

What I do know: I'm probably in the minority.

[SirOmega]

It's not page 1 news for sure. Time of release? Come on.

It is - if Apple/ATT open at 6pm and require in-store activation, the lines will be long and slow, and many people may not choose to go opening night. If its 8A, people will have all day to go.

[ipodtouchy333]

It will be in the morning due to the new registration process AT&T is doing. They will sell out if they open early and sell early... they will not have time to sell out if they open at 6.

Thats the fact Jack.

Nothing is a fact yet.

[tivoli2]

It's not page 1 news for sure. Time of release? Come on.

I agree. This is a gripe for me about iPhone coverage. It's a phone. Apple's whipping it up to be a lifestyle (a stretch even by Apple standards) when all it really is is a very pretty phone.

Since someone might be wondering, I'm reading this particular thread to see what could possibly be of interest about iPhone's time of release. In full disclosure, I also stayed up too late working and I haven't had my coffee yet this morning, so I'm particularly cranky.

My apologies for interrupting the flow - please, continue your breathless speculations. ;)

[Tosser]

So why are many of these 3G iPhone 'stories' making Page 1? :confused: Shouldn't reports on unconfirmed or conflicting speculations be on Page 2? This is the reason I don't watch network news anymore. When you try to report on what you have no clue about, it just makes you look foolish. And I am not just picking on MacRumors, most all iPhone/Apple related web sites are doing the same. I am going to have to quit reading them until weeks after the release when everyone can start speaking with intelligence and certainty.

I hate to break this to you, but Macrumors is hardly "network news".

Rumors are one thing buy wild a$$ speculation is another. :mad:
Yes, and a rumour-site is "slightly" different than a news-site. :rolleyes:

[Stampyhead]

I agree. This is a gripe for me about iPhone coverage. It's a phone. Apple's whipping it up to be a lifestyle (a stretch even by Apple standards) when all it really is is a very pretty phone.

Ok, you don't care about the iPhone, we get it. Now go have your morning coffee and stop peeing in everyone's Cheerios.
I think it is of interest to those who are considering purchasing the v2 iPhone what time the stores will be opening for purchase. There are obviously enough iPhone supporters on here that Arn felt this news was page 1-worthy.
I won't be queuing up on July 11th simply because I'm moving to the UK at the end of July and will wait until then to pick up my new iPhone.

[sonicboom]

There must be something better to speculate on.

I'm looking forward to the second gen iPhone, but I couldn't care less about what time of day they begin to sell them. Heck, I may even wait until July 12th to buy it given I work on Fridays.

If Apple thinks this launch is going to be anything like the first one... they're getting a littler fuller of themselves than usual.

[papiti]

Please, based on history with Apple, it will make more sense if they started at 6:00 pm, don't have to explain that one. Now, as far as the communication letter is concerned. It's a fake, why, basic principle of language in a formal communication letter to store managers. "yeah guys just give them some pizza and that would do the trick", dude, if my of my employees would make such comments on a formal letter, that has to do with such an important event in my company, HE IS OUT!!!!. You have to be professional, specially if your employees are to respect you.

[freebooter]

With all the hype generated on sites like this, one might conclude that the iPhone launch time is considered as significant an historical event as, say, the landing of Apollo 11 on the Moon.
Good lord, get a grip, people. It's a gadget, nothing more. :rolleyes:

I'm catching whiffs of astroturf...

[Jeffers87]

I spoke to a representative in my nearest O2 shop yesterday regarding the iPhone 3G and she said that they are opening the store at 7:02am GMT+1, and that the iPhone will be available for purchase at that time.

[iStefmac]

A year ago, the hype was understandable - Apple had launched a product with one key revolutionary innovation - the multi-touch interface. It is a year later, and the new iPhone: a) Lacks real 3G of the speeds we obtain in Europe - up to 7.2Mbs (vital for all that multimedia content!) b) A decent camera (my Nokia N95 8G shoots amazing still and video footage and this is useful, no just fun.) c) The rear of the phone lacks the quality of the original. (Plastic is understandable for signal level reasons but there is not even a cover for the camera lens.) d) There is no stereo bluetooth - yet it is a music device. e) Related: Unless you're stranded at home, the airport or a coffee shop, you cannot even do wireless content downloads - something I can do on my N95 8G. Am not a Nokia fan (have been using Sony Ericsson K800i until last month), but I think the 3G iPhone has created hype way beyond proportion considering it is missing features that have been standard on many phones that have been available for up to 2 years. Anyone who has shot VGA quality moving video will realise how useful and fun this is. And it is perfect for YouTube! I cannot believe, no video recording on the iPhone! And Apple almost invented computer video with QuickTime too.) Yes, the iPhone 3G will sell well and is a joy to use, but is it really as USEFUL as something like the new Nokia E71 (due soon) or some devices from HTC? Thoughts?

What it IS capable of and meant for are funcitons WAY MORE uselful than any of that ^

Video record? Who cares. Children maybe.

This model is nicer looking and nicer to hold than the original. The metal sucks.

Lacks real 3G? It performs better on 3G than every comparable device. Enjoy your 7.x mbps 3G over there in teh UK with not a single device that comes close to taking advantage of the speeds

[stagi]

its always 6:00 i am sure this won't be any different.

[gkarris]

its always 6:00 i am sure this won't be any different.

Always? The iPhone's only been released here in the US only 1 time before... :confused:

[pacohaas]

So this front page rumor is basically just saying we don't know anything...great. Thumb down on this story.:mad:Notice how I said, first ONES? not THE FIRST ONE!
Nice try on the backtracking logic, but if you had meant it the way you claim, you would have said, "among the first ones", since saying "the first one" would not make sense when talking about Australians as a group as you were.
:rolleyes:

[2in10se]

All retail stores in the silicon valley have a mandatory meeting on july 6 at 7:30-9:30 pm. July 11 has been blocked off for day off request. Schedule shows everyone working but duty is blank. From what I've seen in the back so far, it goes as:
-6pm launch time
-phone will be activated at the apple store and at&t. iphone can be taken home to activate from the apple store. At&t WILL hassle you to activate it at the store. We do not want to train our employees to activate the phone or hire at&t employees to activate the phone in store.
-June29 (sunday meeting date) within retail stores from 7:30pm-9:30pm to talk about the iphone within the store (if you don't believe me stay after mall hours and watch the floor. they will surround inside and have a meeting).

no pictures, no proof. but i said it and i will quote once the date pass. just a friendly heads up.

Ok, well I do know about the details of the launch. Suffice it to say that I work at a retail location and we all got a message about the launch.
1. We will start selling at 6pm and that is public knowledge. I tell that to customers all the time.
2. As for activation we can only guess as we have not heard anything yet. Although there have been confusing stuff posted on inside websites about it.
3. As for June 29 that is not a meeting for the iPhone in our store rather it is one about the services we offer and to become familiar with them.
Thanks!

[MatthewStorm]

Apple will be closing their stores in the afternoon around 3pm and will reopen at 6pm for the iPhone 3G launch. They want to lines to form for publicity and such.

[bredell]

The swedish operator Telia just changed their homepage to say that the iPhone will be available for sale at midnight, July 11.

http://www.telia.se/iphone (In swedish)

[twoodcc]

my guess is 6pm

[Macmerized]

Don't know what time, don't know what price, don't know diddly squat.

Funny....yet true....

[bushido]

i pre-ordered mine on the german t-mobile page like 2 weeks ago and they even guarantee a HOME delivery for the first 1.000 ppl on july 11

but how can that be if every other country has to go through the "in-store activition?"

http://www.t-mobile.de/iphone/

quote:

Je schneller Sie vorbestellen, desto eher halten Sie Ihr iPhone 3G in den Händen - die ersten
1.000 Besteller garantiert am 11. Juli!

Die Freischaltung des iPhone ist erst nach Online-Registrierung bei iTunes unter www.apple.com/de/itunes möglich

rough translation:

the sooner u pre-order it, the earlier u can hold the new iPhone 3G in your hands - the first 1.000 guaranteed on july 11
to use the iPhone is a online registration in iTunes www.apple.com/de/itunes neccessary

[gugy]

I don't care about the time. I want to know the AT&T price plans and fine print.

[boss1]

Not enough control:

History only serves as a good predictor of the future when the same factors exist .

In this case they don't . Especially considering that the relationship between Apple and the new dozens of carriers across the globe is not the same close knit relationship that Apple and AT&T had in 2007.


2 bad things (prob more) can happen with a 6PM release.

1st:
Certain countries/carriers end up breaking the rules (or maybe just certain employees) break the rules and release it too early. This could spell a small disaster for a pristine release when it hits the news that some people already have their iPhones and some people are not allowed to have them until later.

2nd:
Also another potential disaster is the media coverage. There isn't a doubt in my mind that the media (especially the anti iPhone media) is going to have a field day comparing and measuring the lines for this new 3G iPhone to the 2007 release. and if the lines don't match or seem shorter then the 3G will judged and labeled for the public all day long before it ever gets into the hands of the consumer.

I can already hear the potential news caster monologue : "is the 3G iPhone going to be a hit today? Well judging by the lines it certainly doesn't look that way! ". by 1PM Apple stock is down 20% and by 4PM millions who are on the fence about buying a 3G iPhone just decided "i guess not".





i think for gags and headlines Apple should release the iPhone at 3AM! :D

so that media has something gimicky to write about. Headline: "What would you do when the phone rings at 3AM? Well one thing is for sure, you'll probably be better prepared if you pick up on the call on the new 3G iPhone; to be released ironically at 3AM"

[t-johnson]

Don't know what time, don't know what price, don't know diddly squat.


Maybe it's all a scam.

[tivoli2]

Ok, you don't care about the iPhone, we get it. Now go have your morning coffee and stop peeing in everyone's Cheerios.

LOL - sorry. Although, I happen to know that one of the newbies is eating Corn Flakes... ;)

I think it is of interest to those who are considering purchasing the v2 iPhone what time the stores will be opening for purchase. There are obviously enough iPhone supporters on here that Arn felt this news was page 1-worthy.

It just seems to me that it would be of interest were it only available for one day. But I'm not one to argue. Unless I haven't had my coffee, that is...

[Tosser]

Headline: "What would you do when the phone rings at 3AM? Well one thing is for sure, you'll probably be better prepared if you pick up on the call on the new 3G iPhone; to be released ironically at 3AM"

I wouldn't get into journalism if I were you. That headline is mighty, mighty long and far from being "to the point".
:p

[gusapple]

Here are some numbers according to history.

Last year, we got the time of the launch on the 11 of June, however, we got the date 9 days earlier. Either way, by June 18 this time, there should have been a time.

Last year, the data and service plans were announced about 3 days before the iPhone came out. That is why I have a good feeling that Apple is holding off the time for a reason. I don't know exactly, but a reason. I think they might be prolonging the inevitable a little too long.

July 11 is fast approaching, and Apple has to deliver 3 new products almost simultaneously. MobileMe(Which, in theory, could be released before), iPhone 3G, and the iTunes Apps Store. That gives me thought that it will be in midday and not in the middle of the night. I have never seen Apple release a product at midnight. (Recently)

[Jimmie Geddes]

Apple also waited until June 26th (3 days before iphone launch) to announce iTunes activation:

http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2007/06/26activate.html

[sjsharks27]

wont it all just be on the same day that also makes sense.

[rhyx]

wont it all just be on the same day that also makes sense.

Doubtful. Too many things at once. They'd rather spread out the publicity.

[abijnk]

Here are some numbers according to history.

Last year, we got the time of the launch on the 11 of June, however, we got the date 9 days earlier. Either way, by June 18 this time, there should have been a time.

Last year, the data and service plans were announced about 3 days before the iPhone came out. That is why I have a good feeling that Apple is holding off the time for a reason. I don't know exactly, but a reason. I think they might be prolonging the inevitable a little too long.

July 11 is fast approaching, and Apple has to deliver 3 new products almost simultaneously. MobileMe(Which, in theory, could be released before), iPhone 3G, and the iTunes Apps Store. That gives me thought that it will be in midday and not in the middle of the night. I have never seen Apple release a product at midnight. (Recently)

Apple also waited until June 26th (3 days before iphone launch) to announce iTunes activation:

http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2007/06/26activate.html

Thanks for posting this guys! I have been searching the old new threads trying to find out when the info was released, but wasn't having much success.

I guess since this is round 2 I would expect that the details would be out sooner, but I guess I am wrong...

[dawnrazor]

Don't know what time, don't know what price, don't know diddly squat.

I have a feeling the price is not going to be 'nice'!

[clarkysdonga]

So this front page rumor is basically just saying we don't know anything...great. Thumb down on this story.:mad:
Nice try on the backtracking logic, but if you had meant it the way you claim, you would have said, "among the first ones", since saying "the first one" would not make sense when talking about Australians as a group as you were.
:rolleyes:

Yeah that makes better sense for if i was to say 'among the first ones' that would have to include just about everyone from NZ to Europe before it got to the USA.

Like I said, Australia will be the first ONES with it! ;)

[woodekm]

I'd keep everyone guessing and spreading rumors, getting everyone psyched, then at 6pm on the 11th, I'd announce a month until the release.

Then I would hope that another month of keeping the phone out of peoples hands, will generate even MORE sales!!!! (all the while, still not selling the original iPhone).

[DMann]

I'd keep everyone guessing and spreading rumors, getting everyone psyched, then at 6pm on the 11th, I'd announce a month until the release.

Then I would hope that another month of keeping the phone out of peoples hands, will generate even MORE sales!!!! (all the while, still not selling the original iPhone).

Now, that would feed the hype generator to new levels, as well as drive many toward other options. If it weren't for a delay in the manufacturing and production of parts, we would have had them in our hands on June 9th - or by June 29th/30th (iPhone's b-day) at the very latest.

[docx43]

I have a friend who used to work at the mall AT&T kiosk who says it will be released at 6pm. He also said that S. Jobs will be personally activating devices and running the cash register. :apple:

[woodekm]

He also said that S. Jobs will be personally activating devices and running the cash register. :apple:

Oh. He'll be running the cash register all right.

[DMann]

I have a friend who used to work at the mall AT&T kiosk who says it will be released at 6pm. He also said that S. Jobs will be personally activating devices and running the cash register. :apple:

Actually, he will be at the Fifth Avenue store (59th Street) running a cash register between 6-9PM. Flash photos are not allowed, nor are autographs during those hours.

[Niteace]

Say for example the iphone is released at 6PM. Essentially its the same time for everyone, thats how time zones work. Yeah in reality Australia will get it first but would we really want to get the phone at like 3am or whatever? When i get mine i want to play it with for a few hours so 6PM is perfect! Its after work and i have the evening and weekend to play with it!!! :)

[happydude]

i think they should do one world wide timed rollout, sort of like how The Matrix sequels were rolled out (at least the 3rd one, forget if that's the way the 2nd did it). having stores open at 3 a.m. in whatever country to lines of crazy apple zealots would generate ridiculous amounts of press!!

but they'll prob go with their standard 6 p.m. rollout. boring.

[charlituna]

The uncertainty of timings seems odd to me. Surely clear information has to be the way forward - I'm awfully surprised if they are still yet to decide


not to me. they are dealing with unit delivery, mall security, police etc that's a lot to work out. takes time and they don't want to look like noobs by saying one time and then having to change it.

so instead they wait and see what time can be covered by all so everyone goes as the same time to avoid confusion.

[charlituna]

if they are requiring in-store activations this time around, it only makes sense to open earlier to allow more time to complete the activation process. that is unless they plan on staying open until the wee hours of the morning...

that's a big unconfirmed if. certainly the att stores will do full activation. that's the same with all cell phones. but the apple stores (which will likely have more stock, more press and bigger lines) might have a modified process that isn't full activation. something no longer than typical sales transactions with all the warranty sign up etc

plus some folks, especially those that remember the line last year, might just wait until round two to replace their iphone.

[nickspohn]

Ignore him. He is using a theme. You can tell because the font for all the apps are white, when normally, they are a silverish / gray.

[ratbatblue]

Am I the only one who's beginning to get a slightly sinking feeling that what we'll end up seeing on the 11th, at whatever time, is queues to put the PS3 release to shame, and lots 'n lots of very disappointed people when stores quickly run out of supply? I'm thinking this release is going to be nothing like the relatively unfrenzied release of version 1, because the 8GB 3G model is at a price point that many, many, many people can easily afford. I'm picturing an absolute clusterfrick, with harried sales staff and an overpowered activation system and lots of gnashing of teeth. I'm considering showing up 6 hours earlier than the 8 hours early I was already planning on, and bringing a huge gas grill and cooler to sell cheap food and beer to other tired, hungry, thirsty idiots such as myself. Like an iPhone tailgate party, yeah! :cool:

[ipodtouchy333]

Here is a link to my Flickr with uploaded images of screenshots of my 3G iPhone. I currently have possession of one of the Testing units handed down by Apple nearly 3 days before WWDC 08. Check them out because I really wanted the general public to get a look at the new 3G iPhone.

Here is my Flickr link with uploaded screenshots.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/28022835@N06/

Anonymous


Wow, thats some tangible evidence right there! First of all, none of it is exciting or new that we haven't heard of. And second of all, do you have nothing better to do in your day than make these up and hope that 1 person will believe you?

[sn00pie]

Rogers Canada will release the iPhone 3G on July 11, so I can imagine that everyone else will get it at the same time.

Funny because Rogers is trying to "hype" the launch.

[gusapple]

Something just hit me, this year's launch is nothing like last year's. We will have a new activation method. For example, let's say that a store had 1,000 iPhones to sell. They have 10 cashiers and activation takes about ten minutes. That equals out to be around 16 1/2 hours of activation.

If they open up at around 6 PM, then Apple and AT&T will have to pay thousands of dollars in OT for those working extra for long into the night.

However, if the stores open up at 8 and close at 10 at night that's 14 hours, time to get through 840 activations and only pay about 3 hours of OT. Just a thought.

[all-in-my-head]

My local O2 shop seemed to think they were opening early on the 11th. They said to come by at 7am to pick up an iPhone 3G.

They will also have demo models in on the 4th.
But who knows with local shop knowledge, they may have just assumed each shop can sell the iPhone whenever from the 11th, and decided 7am was a good time to start.

I certainly won't get any work done that day if it's true! :D

[bushido]

i hope i get mine home delivered by 1pm :D i already cant wait

[gmcbay]

Am I the only one who's beginning to get a slightly sinking feeling that what we'll end up seeing on the 11th, at whatever time, is queues to put the PS3 release to shame, and lots 'n lots of very disappointed people when stores quickly run out of supply?


The PS3 was not very hard to find at launch because it was so expensive, but I agree with your basic point. The iPhone is very likely to be like the Wii for a while given the new price (yeah, I know it is more expensive overall, but people don't think that long term and the up-front price is now much cheaper). There are going to be lots of disappointed people who want one and can't get their hands on one for a while. There is just no way this launch is going to go smoothly given the price and the added complexity and time sink of in-store activation requirements.

Personally, I really want an iPhone 3G but I'm not even going to try buying one on July 11th, I'm going to wait until the dust settles. I'd rather get it a month or so later than stand in line for like 10 hours to make sure I get one.

[rjasonh]

Last week, while shopping at the Apple Store in San Francisco, I asked the sales guy if they were anticipating the store to busy on July 11th. He told me they were closing the store and reopening at 6PM for launch.

[charlituna]

1st:
Certain countries/carriers end up breaking the rules (or maybe just certain employees) break the rules and release it too early.



1. you are assuming that every country will have the same rules

2. this is not like harry potter or a cd or game release where someone can run home scan/rip the dang thing and upload it the world for impatient folks to steal.


There isn't a doubt in my mind that the media (especially the anti iPhone media) is going to have a field day comparing and measuring the lines for this new 3G iPhone to the 2007 release. and if the lines don't match or seem shorter then the 3G will judged and labeled for the public all day long before it ever gets into the hands of the consumer.



there are many doubts about your logic in my mind. and who cares about the anti iphone media. they are going to gripe no matter what.


and I highly doubt that the stock value will pummet because of short lines or that a significant number of folks will decide not to get a phone because 1000 people were not in line at very major store. if they want the phone, they want the phone. if they don't it is because they abhor ATT, they don't need the gimmicks or whatever.

[charlituna]

Am I the only one who's beginning to get a slightly sinking feeling that what we'll end up seeing on the 11th, at whatever time, is queues to put the PS3 release to shame, and lots 'n lots of very disappointed people when stores quickly run out of supply?



running out is just par for the course. there's no way that any store can guaranteed their supply.


I'm picturing an absolute clusterfrick, with harried sales staff and an overpowered activation system and lots of gnashing of teeth.



we have no information about the actual activation system that will be going on so it's impossible to call it on that. but what I can say is that every apple store I have ever been in has those hand held pay things for credit cards which I will bet will be required (no cash no checks) which means a likely 10-20 'registers' in action and thanks to the chaos only folks that want a phone will dare to come to the stores. so things aren't likely to be as harried as you think.

[charlituna]

If they open up at around 6 PM, then Apple and AT&T will have to pay thousands of dollars in OT for those working extra for long into the night.


no state allows anyone to work that long. so maybe a handful of folks would do a 10 hour shift but that would likely only be a few folks since something like 85% of non management employees in any retail business are part time. so they would likely start on rotations and be at most 8 hours each.

plus you could be wrong about the 10 cashiers and the 10 minutes.

[charlituna]

Apple has to deliver 3 new products almost simultaneously. MobileMe(Which, in theory, could be released before), iPhone 3G, and the iTunes Apps Store.


but two of those products aren't really that big of a deal. mobile me is just dotmac renamed and the itunes apps store is a service add on to the phone so it is basically being released at the same time as the phone. any updates for previous owners will likely be handled online like they do quicktime and such. so not a worry to the stores.

[bushido]

switzerland is offering the new iPhone starting on july 11 at 00:01 without contract ;)

[richmajor86]

I've heard the UK iphones will be launched at 0802. The previous one was 1802, with the 02 to represent our carrier o2.

[boss1]

1. you are assuming that every country will have the same rules

No I'm only assuming that every carrier would have "a" set of rules in place.



2. this is not like harry potter or a cd or game release where someone can run home scan/rip the dang thing and upload it the world for impatient folks to steal.

Actually it's worst. With digital media, it can be at least be judged 1st hand by the consumer and by it's actual context vs being judged by one persons crappy review or crappy pics posted on the web of a stolen product.



and who cares about the anti iphone media.
Apple cares about anti iPhone media. In the same way that any business cares about anti product media. Product image;business brand means the world.

they are going to gripe no matter what.
why add fuel to the fire? Certainly not the attitude I would want any employee to have in my business.

and I highly doubt that the stock value will pummet because of short lines
you grossly under estimate sheeple in the stock market and the wizards with the pointy hats who lead sheeple with their unfounded theories and forecasts.

or that a significant number of folks will decide not to get a phone because 1000 people were not in line at very major store.

The cheaper the price a product gets , the more spontaneous the buying decision becomes. This is true of most products on the market.

So as the price a product becomes less relevant, other factors begin to dominate the purchasing decision. A short line could turn someone away from an iPhone as easily as a short line could turn someone away from entering a nightclub.

This is only true when the length of the line is expected to equate to the experience of the product itself. And is why many businesses go to great lengths to actually create the illusion of longer lines.

[mrfaize]

O2 near me are opening at 07:00 on the 11th July.

[FlexPen76]

My local O2 store tell me that I can "clear" credit check from 4th July but not pre-order or reserve phone. They will open from 07:02 for sales on 11th July. I know you can't trust stores people, so take this as you will. Just posting what I was told.

[PCMacUser]

Actually, New Zealand will be the first (http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/25/iphone-3g-on-sale-in-new-zealand-a-day-before-the-us/), but does it really matter? Some people don't even know when and if the iPhone ever going to be released in the country they live in. They'll have to pay triple only to get an iPhone with no warranty or insurance whatsoever.

Don't worry everyone. I'll let you know what it's like when it's released... :D

[Interstella5555]

no state allows anyone to work that long. so maybe a handful of folks would do a 10 hour shift but that would likely only be a few folks since something like 85% of non management employees in any retail business are part time. so they would likely start on rotations and be at most 8 hours each.

plus you could be wrong about the 10 cashiers and the 10 minutes.


You're kidding, right? I've worked in two states on jobs that requiered AT LEAST 16 hour days, 7 days a week. There is no "state restriction" on jobs like this; it's more often the employers that don't want to pay OT (unless your employee is under the age of 18).

[richmajor86]

So, unlike what i said earlier, most places will actually be opening at 0702, but some more remote places will be 0802.

Credit checks etc will be able to be done before hand, infact the whole purchase, you just wont be able to collect your iphone untill launch time. I would go to store and preorder/pay/creditcheck as soon as you can, which i think is from the 4th onwards, becuase its really likely the creditchecking computers will stop working after about 10 mins of sales! Much easier to just come in and collect your iphone without the fear of broken computers.