Easy solution for Apple

Maybe this will be the last year we have to put up with this crap.

Here's the approach I would take:

Next time, AT&T should issue unique online codes for eligible upgrades, similar to iTunes Promo Codes. Each of these codes can only be applied once, and will be a snapshot of the plan details of a particular number for added security.

That way, when preorder or launch day comes, you come to Apple store or visit the online store, equipped with an AT&T Eligible Discount Code and get the subsidized price and continue or upgrade the plan as needed.

To prevent anyone from canceling or changing their service or phone from the time AT&T issues a code, you agree to be billed to your account for the difference to an unsubsidized price of the phone.

This saves Apple from having to cross-check to AT&T's servers for every step of the preordering process. As you can see over all four iPhone launches, AT&T's remains inadequate to handle the service they're supposed to provide.