AT&T announces iPhone 3G pricing, launch and all sales details !

Want an iPhone 3G on the first day? Be prepared to be at an Apple or AT&T store at 8 a.m. on July 11.

AT&T released details today on how sales of the update to Apple’s cell phone will work. It includes bad news for those who don’t meet the wireless provider’s contract conditions — you’ll pay significantly more than the vaunted $299 price.

From AT&T’s news release:

iPhone 3G will be available for $199 for the 8GB model and $299 for the 16GB model. These prices require two-year contracts and are available to the following customers:

• iPhone customers who purchased before July 11
• Customers activating a new line with AT&T
• Current AT&T customers who are eligible, at the time of purchase, for an upgrade discount

Existing AT&T customers who are not currently eligible for an upgrade discount can purchase iPhone 3G for $399 for the 8GB model or $499 for the 16GB model. Both options require a new two-year service agreement. In the future, AT&T will offer a no-contract-required option for $599 (8GB) or $699 (16GB).

Current customers might also choose to wait until they become eligible for an upgrade discount. Eligibility is generally determined by amount of time remaining on a current contract and payment history.

Current AT&T customers who are upgrading to iPhone 3G will pay an $18 upgrade fee and new AT&T customers will pay the standard $36 activation fee.

AT&T has set up a site with a series of FAQs, including information for those who own an original iPhone and want to upgrade, then sell or give away the older phone.

Originally, the iPhone was lauded not just for its features, but also for the way it was sold, with simplified pricing. Now, it’s being sold just like any other smartphone, complete with higher pricing for those who don’t fit certain categories. If Apple’s goal was to shake up the whole wireless provider industry, I’d say they’ve failed. The status quo has prevailed.  Source[chron/techblog]

Share This