So how does this pre-order business work? (iPhone newbie)

[PRedLSU]

So I've been a Mac user since the early tan Macintosh desktop days, own a Macbook and a brand new Macbook Air, but I've never ventured into the world of iPhone. I'm hoping to change that with the iPhone 5. But I'm unclear how this pre-order situation works.

Basically, does Apple announce the product, your carrier opens it up for pre-orders, and then you just go online and order it on you carrier's website? Is it first come first serve, so like if you call Verizon at 8AM on the day it releases you're likely to get it earlier??

Appreciate any insight!

 

[saving107]

Basically, does Apple announce the product, your carrier opens it up for pre-orders, and then you just go online and order it on you carrier's website? Is it first come first serve, so like if you call Verizon at 8AM on the day it releases you're likely to get it earlier??

Appreciate any insight!

In the past:

1. You were able to pre-order the iPhone from the carrier's or Apple's website (I believe AT&T also let you walk-in and put your name on a list, but I don't believe call-ins are allowed).

2. Pre-orders are first-come first-served.

3. Wait for the mail-man to deliver your package on release date.

So far Apple hasn't announced the next iPhone yet or details on how to obtain one, and this year Apple did not allow pre-orders or reservations for the iPad 2.

 

[zachlegomaniac]

this year Apple did not allow pre-orders or reservations for the iPad 2.

I forgot about that. That will really, really suck if you can't pre-order.