Questions about buying O2 iPhone for Unlocking

I'm buying an O2 iPhone on the 9th, provided some of you can maybe re-assure me on a few points.

I wanted to create one thread where I could get all my quesions answered.. as there as so many iPhone threads out there, even the search feature confuses me!

Basically, I want to know/would like some valid guesses on:

1. Will all Carphone Warehouse stores stock the iPhone on the 9th? I live in a relativley small town, and they normally have everything in stock. Just checking larger city-located stores weren't getting priority. Maybe some of you work for CPW and know?

2. Being a UK iPhone, I'm guessing the software will be slightly different to that of a US phone. Phone numbers and such are displayed differently. I'm pretty sure I've seen some threads about changing a .pref file or something on the US-iPhones that changes the number formatting to the UK style (ie: 01234 567890). Does this mean the unlock method already out there for 1.1.1 phones might not work due to some changes to the software?

3. Where do I go to get the 1.1.1 unlocked? From what I understand, there are 2 versions: one, which damages the base band, and a second one which will allow future upgrade and unlocking (iPhone firmware hacking permitting, of course..).

4. (Last of all, thankfully). Should the iPhone be un-unlockable, ie: the method used on US phones does not work on the UK ones - can we get a refund?

I know for a fact O2 will not accept me on a contract (we live at a blacklisted address after my parents very much divorce, and for some reason, Vodafone and O2 hate me now because of this!) - so my only option would be to use it unlocked on my amazing T-Mobile contract.

But, Carphone Warehouse do not offer any cash refunds - no matter what. They simply offer and exchange or in-store credit. I don't want to be left with a £260 credit note, when I want the iPhone.

Anyway, I would really appreciate your answers/opinions.

Thanks in advance

 

Nearest ones are Birmingham. I'm on the seaside in Wales.. so I'd have a lot travelling! Maybe I should go on the 10th instead?

Less busy? But.. will they have enough stock?

Don't wanna spend £25 and travel all that way for nothing..

 

Where do you plan to go? Swansea?

Hmm.. I spose I could. And, that way, I suppose I would almost be guaranteed stock and have the ability to get my money back - should I not be able to unlock it. As I know for a fact, 100%, despite me getting my credit report from Experian and its blank, totally clean - they will not accept me without a £650 'deposit'.

 

CPW, for some reason, do not give cash refunds. And with it being at their discretion, I've more of a chance of hell freezing over.

What do you think:

A) Apple Store or O2 Store in Birmingham on the Friday/Saturday? Will they be likely to have enough stock?
B) Wait and order from Apple, Online?

As usual BV, thanks for the help