How Does Apple/AT&T handle the switch

[cineapple]

So, let's say by good fortune the iphones are released today in Apple and AT&T stores. How do the stores handle the switch? Do they wait until after the keynote, and then suddenly run around swapping out the old replacing them with the new ipones?. Obviously I don't believe this is what actually happens, could make a funny video, but really how have they done it in the past when when the first iphone was finally released?

If they are released today, wouldn't the AT&T and Apple stores already have them on their shelves? Has anyone today visited a store yet?

 

[siurpeeman]

well, when the first iphone was released a year ago, they closed the stores down at 2 pm (both at&t and apple stores), reopening them at 6 pm. i doubt that'll happen this time, but who knows?

 

[Jblack4083]

This is the very thing that makes me think it won't be released today. On the other hand tho, I don't see them leaving an iPhone off the shelves for 2 months.

 

[nickspohn]

the iPhone will NOT be released today.


expect it in 2 weeks or so.

 

[rayward]

I suspect that Apple/AT&T stores will handle the 3G iPhone releast the same way they did the initial release. That's why I expect that the new phone won't be available today...just announced today.

Don't forget that this is the software developers conference. The 3G iPhone is a mere hardware upgrade that brings the iPhone up to - some would argue that - the capabilities of other smartphones. The trick of the iPhone is in the software, and that's going to be what today is all about.

Expect some think "Oh...one more thing...3G iPhone with GPS, videoconferencing and front-mounted camera will be available on June 27th!"

 

[Dorfdad]

Does anyone remmember the meo AT&T sent out to employess that they are not allowed to take vacation or leave due to a new product launch during some time frame I think its June 15th-27th or something like that maybe it ws begining of July..

This would make it pretty clear the launch timeframe for the new iphone or another new product..

 

[h0e0h]

my neighbor and good friend manages the largest local AT&T store in my area and he told me that they have yet to receive any shipments or any training on the new iPhone, no sales promo material or anything pertaining to it. He virtually assured me that today is not the day for the iPhone to go on sale at the local AT&T. He said they have some blocked off dates between June 19th and July 10th for some training so I'm assuming this means iPhone and new Blackberry Bold.

 

[benmrii]

Today is very unlikely. Tomorrow is possible. A week or two is more likely.

And the "switch" will be made especially easy considering the (soon-to-be) 'old' iPhone hasn't been available for purchase for about a month.

 

[aethelbert]

If something gets updated, they leave the old models on display until the next morning. But they'll have the new models in the back available for purchase.