3G iPhone in Japan?

[zentraedi]

Just saw the post on Gizmodo Japan, and it seems like people are going crazy trying to preorder iPhones.

http://www.gizmodo.jp/2008/06/iphone_3g.html

Should sell pretty well here.

Unfortunately, that probably means it won't be readily available for a while.

 

[mavis]

Just saw the post on Gizmodo Japan, and it seems like people are going crazy trying to preorder iPhones.

http://www.gizmodo.jp/2008/06/iphone_3g.html

Should sell pretty well here.

Unfortunately, that probably means it won't be readily available for a while.

Fantastic, considering I won't be able to camp out for days in advance, let alone get to the store by opening time on the 11th.

I almost wish the iPhone had been as expensive as I had thought it would be - at least that way there'd be less of a mad rush by everyone and their uncle to buy it on launch day!!!

 

[SaSaSushi]

Just saw the post on Gizmodo Japan, and it seems like people are going crazy trying to preorder iPhones.

http://www.gizmodo.jp/2008/06/iphone_3g.html

Should sell pretty well here.

Unfortunately, that probably means it won't be readily available for a while.

Saw one thing towards the bottom of that Gizmodo piece that was a bit disconcerting. It appears there is some scuttlebutt that one will not be able to use an iPhone on the famous White Plan but rather there will be a special iPhone-only payment plan with 5% call charge royalties going to Apple just like in the states.

Pardon me if this is common knowledge among you folks more "in the know" but as much as I'd love an iPhone it would probably be a deal-killer for me. The White Plan is a major reason I'm still with Softbank.

If that's the case I'll just hope for a new version of the iPod Touch that matches price drops with the iPhone. I don't care if they switch from the metal back to the new black plastic one if it means cheaper prices.

 

[mavis]

If that's the case I'll just hope for a new version of the iPod Touch that matches price drops with the iPhone. I don't care if they switch from the metal back to the new black plastic one if it means cheaper prices.

Umm, I wouldn't hold your breath. The lower prices are the result of carrier subsidies, and since the iPod Touch has no carrier - well, that means no subsidies.

As far as the service goes, I'm willing to spend up to about $100/month, as long as that includes unlimited data. I mean, that's what I'm spending now (and I'm on the White Plan, too!) ... In the US and UK, service including unlimited data starts at about $60-70, so we should be alright here.

Oh and BTW - Apple and AT&T have scrapped that 5% royalty system, in favor of the subsidy thing. So, I wouldn't put too much weight in that rumor on Gizmodo ...

 

[SaSaSushi]

Umm, I wouldn't hold your breath. The lower prices are the result of carrier subsidies, and since the iPod Touch has no carrier - well, that means no subsidies.

Oh, OK, I didn't know that. I assumed most of the price drop was due to changes in construction (like the new plastic back to replace the metal one).

Maybe I'll just buy an 8GB iPhone and use it as an iPod then. lol

 

[mavis]

Oh, OK, I didn't know that. I assumed most of the price drop was due to changes in construction (like the new plastic back to replace the metal one).

Maybe I'll just buy an 8GB iPhone and use it as an iPod then. lol

I agree that cost was probably one factor in the decision to use plastic instead of metal, but actually I've read that another more compelling reason is due to reception - since metal blocks radio frequencies and plastic is RF transparent, Apple went with plastic to improve signal strength for 3G/wifi/BT/GPS signals. Quite a bit of RF going in and out of that thing!

Regardless, I would've loved a metal back like the first iPhone. Or at least a cubic zirconium shell (also RF transparent) like Apple has apparently patented.

 

[keirnna]

I think the metal back is too easy to scratch.

 

[BiginJapan]

I agree that cost was probably one factor in the decision to use plastic instead of metal, but actually I've read that another more compelling reason is due to reception - since metal blocks radio frequencies and plastic is RF transparent, Apple went with plastic to improve signal strength for 3G/wifi/BT/GPS signals. Quite a bit of RF going in and out of that thing!

Regardless, I would've loved a metal back like the first iPhone. Or at least a cubic zirconium shell (also RF transparent) like Apple has apparently patented.

Yeah, that was the only thing I didn't like about what I saw of the 3G iPhone -- that it's plastic, and it appears to be glossy, too. I would have preferred the metal back, too (I did consider the RF issues, though), or at least a matte black. But I'll deal -- probably put the thing in a case of some kind.

I think the metal back is too easy to scratch.

Easier than glossy plastic??

 

[MacbookSwitcher]

Any word on if iPhone in Japan will actually cost no more than $199 USD (21,000 JPY), as Steve Jobs said during the keynote? Since phones in Japan are so expensive, I'd be surprised if it actually sold for that cheap, so there has to be some catch (other than more expensive monthly fees)

Also, totally random question...
You guys know of a website where I can find a list of the most popular mobile phones being used by people in Japan?

 

[mavis]

Any word on if iPhone in Japan will actually cost no more than $199 USD (21,000 JPY), as Steve Jobs said during the keynote? Since phones in Japan are so expensive, I'd be surprised if it actually sold for that cheap, so there has to be some catch (other than more expensive monthly fees)

Well, Apple has already said that $199 is the maximum GLOBAL price for the 8GB iPhone 3G, so I think you can count it being no more than about $199.

Actually, the media here in Tokyo are saying it will cost 21,000Y or so - I don't know if they're just basing that on the $199 figure Apple has promised or if Softbank has 'officially' committed to that price - in either case, I don't think it's really up to Softbank - I have a feeling this is an Apple-dictated thing.

 

[juno-j]

Although the site is in Japanese, I think this web site will help you to find the most popular mobile phone in Japan.

http://kakaku.com/keitai/

I wanted to get an iPhone, but since it is with SoftBank, I have to give it up
until they will put many towers here.

 

[Eastend]

Although the site is in Japanese, I think this web site will help you to find the most popular mobile phone in Japan.

http://kakaku.com/keitai/

I wanted to get an iPhone, but since it is with SoftBank, I have to give it up
until they will put many towers here.

I believe this site is just going to show you the cost of the phone. It is not going to show you DoCoMos Plans or Softbanks plans, the plans are where they make their money. It will also not show all the discounts you can get or any acquired points you may have towards purchase. For example I had the same phone for almost 10 years, with my acquired points I purchased a 40,000 yen telephone for 5,000 yen. I purchased a family plan, our house has 6 telephones on the plan, when we call one of those phones it is free so we leave one at home at all times.
By the way Kakaku.com is great for all electronics products even stores use it in their shops, their is no reason to go to a shop with kakaku.com unless you need to see the real product,

 

[keirnna]

Although the site is in Japanese, I think this web site
I wanted to get an iPhone, but since it is with SoftBank, I have to give it up
until they will put many towers here.

Softbank really sucks here also. I was hoping that both DoCoMo and Softbank would pick up the iPhone.

 

[mad cow disease]

Although the site is in Japanese, I think this web site will help you to find the most popular mobile phone in Japan.

http://kakaku.com/keitai/

I wanted to get an iPhone, but since it is with SoftBank, I have to give it up
until they will put many towers here.

Curious, "here" is where? The remote edges of Hokkaido? I remember when I was in Japan Vodafone (at the time) had good coverage, even in the sticks of Hiroshima-ken.

 

[keirnna]

Curious, "here" is where? The remote edges of Hokkaido? I remember when I was in Japan Vodafone (at the time) had good coverage, even in the sticks of Hiroshima-ken.

Their coverage in Okinawa is awful.

 

[Snowshiro]

Well, Apple has already said that $199 is the maximum GLOBAL price for the 8GB iPhone 3G.

Actually, the media here in Tokyo are saying it will cost 21,000Y

A few clarifications:

The media is simply reporting the price that was announced in Jobs' keynote. They're not confirming that it will be 21,000. No one is.

In his speech Jobs specifically said "And in almost every one of these countries, the price is a maximum of $199" - note the almost every one part. While I believe it probably will be around the expected figure, there is no guarantee. At no time has Apple said that $199 will be the maximum global figure. This is just inaccurate reporting by bloggers.

I'm not sure why people will be surprised at the lack of a White Plan option. They're having to pay a hefty royalty to Apple to have the phone (one of the reasons DoCoMo couldn't come to an agreement). 980 yen a month would be ludicrously unrealistic.

 

[mavis]

In his speech Jobs specifically said "And in almost every one of these countries, the price is a maximum of $199" - note the almost every one part. While I believe it probably will be around the expected figure, there is no guarantee. At no time has Apple said that $199 will be the maximum global figure. This is just inaccurate reporting by bloggers.

You're right, that is an important distinction. I wasn't aware that he worded it that way! Then again, maybe it's good that the media has jumped on the $200 figure - Softbank will look like the bad guy if they come out with a Japan-only price exceeding that. Finally, Japanese people will be aware of how much they're getting screwed over by their local businesses!! Not to mention the fact that at a higher price point, there will likely be fewer early adopters, meaning I might actually be able to get one on the 11th!

I'm not sure why people will be surprised at the lack of a White Plan option. They're having to pay a hefty royalty to Apple to have the phone (one of the reasons DoCoMo couldn't come to an agreement). 980 yen a month would be ludicrously unrealistic.

Well, Apple has shown they're not married to that revenue-sharing model. I would be surprised (not to mention somewhat disappointed in Softbank) to learn that they've got that kind of arrangement here. That said, you're right - expecting a $10/month plan for the iPhone is kind of asinine. I'm expecting to pay closer to about $100/month, but quite frankly I don't HOW much it is - all I want is unlimited data. I'll pay whatever they want for that. heh

 

[mojopagoda]

Iphone in Japan

l am one of those "wealthy gaijin" referred to above and all my Japanese friends want an Iphone depending on pricing structure. Lots of people use their phones to play games on the train and listen to music - perfect for the Iphone- and alot of ppl update their phones pretty often so I think Iphone will be more than just a niche here. l am not feeling confident I will get mine on July 11th!

 

[sushi]

but some of the choices they've made when it comes to UI are just pathetic - downright TERRIBLE.

So true.

That has kept me from purchasing a new cell phone for quite a while.

It is truly incredible how hung up the culture is on 'brands' and how willingly they are to pay exorbitant prices. Bread, fruit, services... whatever. It's all over priced and over accepted (?)

Yep, part of the culture in the Tokyo/Yokohama area for sure.

Apple seems to be well received here in that regard.

this is as close to third-world as I have ever experienced first hand)

This gave me chuckle having been in third world countries.

I arrived here before both, 15 years ago.

Short timer!

Things have definitely changed over the years Internet and cell phone wise.

Its a insane how alot of my friends here would rather message each other than go out and talk.

I find it interesting how you can see a group of HS girls, 3-4, walking down the street together but all on their cell phones talking to whomever. Some of the less popular will even have a beeper to call themselves so they are not left out.

I find that American's over here seem to be affected by the cell phone craze as well. I find it really rude when you are out at lunch and someone is continuously answering phone calls and text messages.

The iPhone has been announced for Japan. SoftBank will be the provider.

http://www.softbankmobile.co.jp/en/news/press/2008/20080604_01/

Depending on the plans they offer and the cost, I guess I may be converting from DoCoMo to SoftBank.

That said, you're right - expecting a $10/month plan for the iPhone is kind of asinine. I'm expecting to pay closer to about $100/month, but quite frankly I don't HOW much it is - all I want is unlimited data. I'll pay whatever they want for that. heh

I bet your $100/month cost will be close.

If my current plan is say $35, that means a $65 per month ($780 annual) increase. Not sure if it will be worth it at that price. I can use the $780 for other goodies and toys.

Then again, having the iPhone might be worth it.

 

[juno-j]

Curious, "here" is where?

It's far west of Kobe and the surrounding area. Vodafone coverage was also bad there.

 

[SaSaSushi]

That said, you're right - expecting a $10/month plan for the iPhone is kind of asinine.

Since I'm the only one who brought up the possibility that the iPhone will be exclusive of the White Plan I can only assume this was directed to me so let me ask you if we're going to start the personal insult thing again? I was biting my fingers to keep from piling on when others were calling you on your "third world" gaffe.

For the record I am not expecting anything. In fact, if I am expecting something it is just that the iPhone will be exclusive of the White Plan since that's what the bit in the Gizmodo article indicated.

Like someone else above noted I have an entire family of phones on the White Plan. If I could just get an iPhone to replace the Toshiba I'm using now on the White Plan I would most definitely do it even if there was an added monthly charge to cover for Apple royalties, etc.

For me, PERSONALLY, I just don't value the iPhone highly enough to consider getting myself on a new payment plan exclusive of the rest of the family with whom I now communicate free of charge 24/7.

I don't fault you for having an entirely different opinion on the matter and I hope you enjoy your iPhone.

 

[SaSaSushi]

Short timer!

Things have definitely changed over the years Internet and cell phone wise.

I was on 2400baud dialup with Compuserve when I first arrived here.

Things have changed indeed.

If my current plan is say $35, that means a $65 per month ($780 annual) increase. Not sure if it will be worth it at that price. I can use the $780 for other goodies and toys.

Yeah, like a 16GB iPod Touch and $400 left over. lol

I'm beginning to think I'm with you, sushi.

 

[mavis]

Since I'm the only one who brought up the possibility that the iPhone will be exclusive of the White Plan I can only assume this was directed to me so let me ask you if we're going to start the personal insult thing again? I was biting my fingers to keep from piling on when others were calling you on your "third world" gaffe.

I definitely wouldn't call it a 'gaffe,' as this is hands-down the filthiest, most run-down and decrepit city with the lowest standards of living I've ever seen; then again all I have to compare Tokyo to are a few dozen cities across the US and Canada. Which is why my exact words were "I know there are worse places to be, although this is as close to third-world as I have ever experienced first hand" ... That's my opinion and I stand by it 100%! Although, taken out of context the meaning changes considerably. But, I guess it's easier for people to point fingers that way. Anyway, moving right along: no - my comment wasn't directed at you at all! Although, now that you mention it ...

Anyway, I think it's fair to say that we're probably going to have to pay through the nose for the privilege of owning an iPhone, but I'm prepared to do so. I won't be thrilled about it, by any means - but this is Japan, and I've found that living here often requires accepting ridiculous pricing. Like Krispy Kremes that cost 3x what they cost in the States, Japanese CDs that are cheaper to have imported from the States than buying locally (even though the CD has to be EXPORTED to the States, and then shipped BACK to Japan - seriously WTH!), camera lenses that are made in Japan that cost $1500 in the US but $2300 here, and the list goes on.

Softbank is gonna take us all to the cleaners!!!

 

[SaSaSushi]

I definitely wouldn't call it a 'gaffe,' as this is hands-down the filthiest, most run-down and decrepit city with the lowest standards of living I've ever seen; then again all I have to compare Tokyo to are a few dozen cities across the US and Canada. Which is why my exact words were "I know there are worse places to be, although this is as close to third-world as I have ever experienced first hand" ... That's my opinion and I stand by it 100%!

That's an interesting opinion.

Being a long term American ex-pat myself I'd really be curious to find out which cities in the US and Canada you're declaring Tokyo to be so decrepit, run-down and having the lowest standard of living in comparison to, lol.

Have you ever been to the poorer parts of L.A., Chicago, Detroit? How about the South Bronx?? West Baltimore, maybe? I've been to all of the above and Tokyo. Now, I'm not saying Tokyo doesn't have it's "seedier" areas but come on now can you really make such comments with a straight face?...

Standing behind a gaffe doesn't make it any less of a faux pas.

I've found that living here often requires accepting ridiculous pricing.

Well, no question the average cost of living in Japan is much higher than that in the states. Nearly everything is more expensive but there are exceptions. Try getting 100MB/s fiber optic Internet anywhere in the states for a total of about $60/month.

Oh, and even though gasoline is $6.60 per US gallon here now by my calculations my family back home tells me gas just passed through $4/gallon and at the rate it's rising could hit $5/gallon there by the end of the summer.

Softbank is gonna take us all to the cleaners!!!

No, Softbank is going to take you to the cleaners.

I'll get an iPhone only if it meets my economic criterion.

 

[sushi]

I was on 2400baud dialup with Compuserve when I first arrived here.

I saw 300 Baud arrive here. A few years later, a 2400 Baud line was like gravy -- so cool.

Things have changed indeed.

Let's see, if my calculations are correct, downloading Mac OS 9.2.1 update (82MB), which took my buddies FTTH connection about 9 seconds, would take about 25 and a half days at 300 baud. Yes, you could say times have changed!

Yeah, like a 16GB iPod Touch and $400 left over. lol

I'm beginning to think I'm with you, sushi.

Yep, can do so much with the cash left over.

One year is $780 ($65 x 12). In two years, you could almost pay for a MBA with the money saved. That is significant.

I am very curious to see what Softbank's plans are going to be. Not sure where my threshold of pain will be. I guess we will know soon enough.