If you’re a developer that wants your shiny new iPhone App in the store on launch day, you’d better be putting the final touches on it. Apple has begun sending out emails to various developers, letting them know that they will need to submit their App no later than Monday July 7th. Any later than this, and your App won’t be there for launch day.
[via TUAW]
For those of you looking to upgrade from the original iPhone to it’s 3G big brother, it looks like you’re going to have another option for your old phone. Rather than wiping the data and selling your older iPhone, it seems you can still use it as an iPod.
According to an AT&T spokesperson, “if the [original] device is not re-activated as a wireless phone after you’ve upgraded to iPhone 3G, it will still work as an iTunes player and can access Wi-Fi”. Sounds like a good alternative if you ask me. Then you can gift the cool new iPod to a friend or relative that might not have AT&T or otherwise have use for a full-fledged iPhone.
[via MacRumors]
The iPhone is certainly making waves when it comes to the gaming industry. We’ve already seen one company form with the sole purpose of creating games for the phone. Now we have word that another big player in the industry is pondering the iPhone’s gaming potential.
Bioware is the studio behind awesome games like Mass Effect and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. Co-CEO Greg Zeschuk recently stated that they’re looking into development for the iPhone. “Something that’s as big a cultural and technical success as the iPhone is something you’ve really got to take a close look at.”
This by no means is a definitive “yes, we’re going to develop for the iPhone,” but it certainly does look promising.
[via Joystiq]
If you didn’t already know, Apple has put up their ‘Guided Tour‘ of the iPhone 3G on their site. The video is around a half hour, so grab some popcorn and a cold one, sit back and prepare to be wowed. Ok, so it’s not really that exciting, but there was certainly one tidbit in there worth mentioning.
As the guy is demonstrating the App Store, we are able to view a few different applications, like Twitterific, eBay, TypePad and AIM. Wait, AIM? That’s right folks, it seems that we’ll have access to at least one of the major instant messaging services. Of course there is that little tidbit at the bottom stating “some applications are not available in all areas” which means it’s entirely possible that we won’t get it here in the US, but I have a good feeling about this.
[via iPhoneAlley]
With all of the official information finally coming down from AT&T, many of our questions have been answered. Of course, every answer seems to bring up more questions. Thankfully we’ve been in touch with AT&T PR Representative Brad Mays who has happily answered a few of our burning questions. Hit the jump for a transcript of our Q&A.
iPhoneBuzz: What are the estimated units per store?
AT&T: We’re not providing the number of units available per store
iPhoneBuzz: When will you allow customers to purchase the iPhone at the no-contract price?
AT&T: We haven’t announced when we will offer the no-contract option.
iPhoneBuzz: What is the official policy for customers who purchased new service (did not purchase an iPhone) within the last 30 days?
AT&T: If you buy your new iPhone 3G within 30 days after joining AT&T, you would simply return your current device and then get iPhone 3G for the $199/$299 price.
iPhoneBuzz: Additionally, if the iPhone 3G is out of stock and my 30 days are coming up, what will I need to do?
AT&T: If it’s out of stock, you’ll be able to pay for the device, and then will be notified when it is available to pick up
If you guys still have questions shoot them our way. We can’t make any promises, but we’ll do our best to get them answered for you!
This year as Apple roles out the iPhone 3G you will see their environmental agreement come into play. Last year Steve Jobs promised a Greener Apple, and this year we will see that the packing supplies have changed for the iPhone. Now, the iPhone will be shipped in a starch paper tray, made mostly of potato starches.
These trays are manufactured by a Dutch company named PaperFoam, whose CEO just announced that Apple ordered “millions of PaperfFam packages” for its new 3G iPhone. By doing this Apple reducing the carbon footprint of the iPhone by at least 90 percent, which are 100 percent biodegradable and made from natural resources.
You may already know of this company for being the producers for packages for Motorola and the first generation iPod video and iPod nano.
I look forward to ripping through my 100 percent biodegradable packaging to get to the brand new iPhone 3G it will house on July 11th!
[via The Register]
Well folks, it looks as though we finally have the answer to that burning question. Just how much will AT&T want from customers already under contract (that aren’t eligible for an upgrade) for a new iPhone? Hit the jump for the answer.
Those customers not eligible for an upgrade will have to pay $399 for an 8GB iPhone 3G and $499 for the 16GB model. While this is still considerably more than the $199 price for new customers, it is still cheaper than the original iPhone.
Additionally, AT&T has announced that they will offer no-contract-required iPhones in the future at $599 and $699 price points. With less than two weeks to go, it looks like AT&T is finally getting us some answers.
We announce various prices, text message plans, store hours and other details.
Send me any questions you have, and I’ll try to get them answered quickly. There are a few details that we have not ironed out, but we will have everything answered prior to launch on July 11.
We have three detailed videos now posted that describe how to be iReady. One for current customers, one for new customers and one about hand-me-down original iPhones.
Media Kit: http://www.att.com/gen/press-room?pid=1574
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/attvideolog
AT&T: How Current Customers can be iReady for iPhone 3G
AT&T: How to be iReady for iPhone 3G: Other Customers
Can I make my original iPhone a hand-me-down?
Highlights:
* Tips, FAQs, a checklist for consumers, and a tool to check upgrade eligibility have just launched at: www.att.com/iPhone
* iPhone 3G will be available for $199 (8GB) and $299 (16GB) for iPhone customers who purchased an iPhone prior to 7/11, customers activating a new line with AT&T and current AT&T customers who are eligible for an upgrade
* 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.
* A number of service plans will be available, starting with the AT&T Nation 450 plan that includes unlimited data, 450 Anytime Minutes and 5,000 Night & Weekend Minutes for $69.99 a month. Text message plans are available separately starting at $5/month for 200 messages.
Press Release: AT&T ANNOUNCES iPhone 3G PRICING AND TIPS TO BE iREADY
Online Resources Available to Help Customers Prepare for Purchase
Variety of Attractive Plans Combine Voice and Unlimited Data
DALLAS, July 1, 2008 — AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) today announced iPhone 3G pricing for new and existing AT&T customers, several attractive voice and data plans, and tips on how to be “iReady” when iPhone 3G goes on sale at AT&T retail stores at 8 a.m. local time on Friday, July 11.“We can’t wait to offer iPhone 3G to our customers, and we want to make sure the buying process is as easy as possible,” said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO of AT&T’s wireless unit. “Considering all the great new features of iPhone 3G, we think our pricing and monthly plans present a tremendous value for consumers and businesses alike.”
Pricing and Eligibility
AT&T is making it easy for customers to prepare for their iPhone 3G purchase by posting “Get iReady” tips and frequently asked questions at www.att.com/iPhone. The site also will include a link for customers to check their upgrade eligibility and other wireless account information.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 may 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.
Voice, Data and Text Messaging Plans
AT&T brings iPhone 3G customers the best coverage on the globe and the largest mobile-to-mobile calling community with unlimited calling to AT&T’s 71.4 million wireless customers. iPhone 3G customers can choose from four individual AT&T Nation plans, which bundle voice and unlimited data (e-mail and Web browsing).AT&T NationSM Unlimited: Includes unlimited Anytime Minutes for $129.99 a month.
AT&T Nation 1350: Includes 1350 Anytime Minutes and unlimited Night & Weekend Minutes for $109.99 a month.
AT&T Nation 900: Includes 900 Anytime Minutes and unlimited Night & Weekend Minutes for $89.99 a month.
AT&T Nation 450: Includes 450 Anytime Minutes and 5,000 Night & Weekend Minutes for $69.99 a month.All AT&T Nation and AT&T FamilyTalk® plans for iPhone 3G include nationwide long distance and roaming, Visual Voicemail, Rollover®, unlimited mobile to mobile calling, Call Forwarding, Call Waiting, Three-Way Calling and Caller ID.
AT&T will offer FamilyTalk plans, with bundled voice and unlimited data, starting as low as $129.99 a month for two iPhone 3G lines. Up to three additional iPhone lines can be added for $39.99 each.
Unlimited text messaging can be added for an additional $20 ($30 for FamilyTalk plans of up to five lines); $15 (1,500 messages), or $5 (200 messages).
iPhone for Business
Business customers interested in iPhone 3G should contact an AT&T business sales representative or review their account information online to determine their eligibility for upgrade pricing. Corporate e-mail and other business applications require the Enterprise Data Plan for iPhone, which is $45 a month and bundled with an eligible voice plan. Small business customers may qualify for AT&T BusinessTalk, the industry’s only shared plan specifically for small businesses. Additional details on iPhone business offerings are available at www.att.com/iphoneforbusiness.iPhone 2.0 Software
All iPhone customers will benefit from the iPhone 2.0 software, which will be pre-loaded on all iPhone 3Gs and available as a free download for current iPhone customers. The new software will include numerous enhancements, such as business-class e-mail access via Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync; the iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK), which allows a business to easily create applications customized to its needs; and the App Store, which offers a wide-range of applications — from games to business, education to entertainment and productivity to social networking. For example, AT&T has developed YELLOWPAGES.COM mobile for iPhone, which takes local mobile search to a new level by allowing users to discover businesses and local events based on their popularity among other iPhone users, get directions and access business reviews.* iPhone 3G is available to customers who are currently prepaid customers; however, there is no prepaid plan for iPhone 3G. Additionally, customers’ accounts must be in good standing at the time of purchase.
I’ll admit that I don’t make a ton of calls on my mobile phone, and generally don’t worry about how many minutes I’m using. However, there are those out there that talk considerably more than I. For those people I give you iCall.
iCall is a useful application which will allow you to instantly switch between VoIP and GSM calls. This means you can sit at home and use your local Wi-Fi network to make calls without using up valuable minutes.
No, the iPhone won’t be the first phone to take advantage of this sort of feature, but you can bet that it will be one of the more useful apps. This is said to already have passed the Apple inspection, and should hopefully appear on the App Store sometime after launch.
[via 9to5mac]
Is the iPhone going to be the next big mobile gaming platform? While I’m definitely excited about the possibilities, I find it tough as an avid gamer to think it will ever replace my DS, or someone else’s PSP. Neil Young, formerly of Electronic Arts (not to be confused with the legendary musician) believes so strongly in the iPhone’s gaming potential that he’s left one of the largest gaming companies to found his own company which will focus on games specifically for Apple’s phone.
Young describes the iPhone’s performance as being almost on-par with that of the PSP, but goes on to mention that “unlike the PSP, it’s got a touchscreen, accelerometers, a camera, it’s location-aware, it’s got all of your media on it, it’s awake with you, it’s always on, and it’s always connected to the network.” When he puts it like that, who wouldn’t want to develop games for it?
I’m still not sure that I’d give up my DS, but I’ll certainly be downloading games to my iPhone. You can bet that Ngcomo (Young’s new venture) won’t be the only one’s working hard to make the iPhone into the next big mobile gaming platform.
[via Gamasutra]
About this time last year we were all so excited about the release of the original iPhone. We waited in line, we saved for months, and to back all of this, we bought Apple Care to protect our new baby.
For all of your that bought Apple care on your iPhone you know that the expiration date is creeping up on you. Of course, Apple will allow you to extend your current Apple Care for just $69.95 or, if your like me, just buy the iPhone 3G and get its Apple Care for $129.95.
If the iPhone is anything like most cars I’ve owned, everything will go wrong the very day after the warranty expires. I’m just saying.
A good many of our neighbors to the north have been eagerly awaiting information regarding the iPhone 3G data/voice plans from Rogers/Fido. Well that day has come, and while they have come up with plans that feature more data for the iPhone, they apparently don’t believe in unlimited data. Hit the jump for a breakdown of their rates.
I feel really bad for the Canadian customers that want an iPhone. First, there is no unlimited data plan, which while some people may never go over that 2GB cap on the $115 plan, I still would much rather not have to worry about it. As for the customers that don’t really use that many daytime minutes, they’re still forced into purchasing more minutes just to get more data.
There are a few things that Rogers is throwing in, like free incoming text messages, and free access to Rogers and Fido Wi-Fi hotspots. While those are a couple of niceties, they don’t make up for what the plans are lacking.
[via MacRumors]
There are probably more than a few of you thinking about selling off your old 2.5G iPhone in order to make some room in your bank account for the new iPhone 3G. Unfortunately you’ll discover that there is no good way to securely erase all of your personal data from the phone, not yet at least.
This oversight is one that Apple intends to correct with the new iPhone 2.0 update. When you finally have the new software (which likely won’t be coming out until the iPhone 3G launch happens on July 11) you’ll be able to safely and securely destroy all of your private data. Think of it as the phone equivalent of your Secure Empty Trash on your Mac.
[via TUAW]
As we hit the 1st birthday of the phone that brought us into a new future, we also prepare for the incoming of a brand new birth in iPhone’s life. We are all anxiously awaiting the arrival of iPhone 2.5G’s brother, iPhone 3G, but will never forget the times we’ve shared with the original.
So happy first birthday iPhone, we look forward to many more…
Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear iPhone…Happy birthday to you!
I’ve thought for some time that it would be awesome if I could control iTunes from my iPhone. I tend to just let my tunes play throughout my house, as my speakers can be heard throughout most of the house. Unfortunately when I want to pause the music or change a song, I have to run to my computer. Well it seems that Apple already has something up their sleeve in this department.
For those that have downloaded the pre-release version of iTunes 7.7 (for developers) there was a little something snuck into that pesky ‘Read Me’ that most of us simply skip through. The important snipit is below.
Use iTunes 7.7 to sync music, video, and more with iPhone 3G, and download applications from the iTunes Store exclusively designed for iPhone and iPod touch with software version 2.0 or later. Also use the new Remote application for iPhone or iPod touch to control iTunes playback from anywhere in your home — a free download from the App Store.
I would venture to guess that you’ll be limited to controlling iTunes on only the PC that the iPhone is synced with, which shouldn’t be an issue for most people. This particular feature had been rumored to be coming since late April. It’s good to see some of these rumors coming true.
[via Macrumors]
We’ve heard talk about both activation of the iPhone 3G in-store at the time of purchase, and the possibility for some people to complete their activation at home. While we still don’t know the official details, an Italian news site seems to think they know the answer. It’s actually both.
According to the rumor, half of the activation will be done in-store. This will include activation of the phone with your carrier, and choosing your rate plan. Once you get home, you’ll need to use iTunes to set up billing information so that you can purchase and download programs via the App Store.
[via MacNN]
It seems that Apple is gearing up for the launch of the iPhone 3G by distributing a 3-page FAQ document to Apple Store employees. Most of the information is nothing new to us, but there are a few things worth mentioning, which I have listed after the jump.
“You may not place iPhone 3G on hold for anyone. No exceptions. It is critical that all stores follow the same process to ensure every customer has an equal and fair opportunity to purchase a phone.”
If a customer says, “I just bought a first generation iPhone. Will I be able to upgrade to an iPhone 3G at a discounted price or exchange it for an iPhone 3G?,” Apple store reps are being told to say that they “don’t have any information regarding upgrades.”
Customers may then ask, “Are you going to change the iPod touch pricing now that you lowered the cost of iPhone?” To this, employees should respond by saying, “Not that I am aware of.”
“Detailed rate plans have not yet been announced. When they are announced, Apple Store Specialists will be ready to review and help [customers] pick out the best plan for [their] needs.”
Like I said, not much new to see here, but it’s worth a glance. With just over two weeks to go, I’m sure we’ll start hearing some more detailed info any day now.
[via AppleInsider]
We saw a good deal of pictures of the new iPhone 3G at WWDC earlier this month, but wouldn’t it be cool to see a side-by-side comparison of the new and old phones? Ask and you shall receive.
It looks like the edges of the phone are a little more streamlined, with only the volume rocker and the headphone jack disturbing its sleek lines. With the headphone jack not being recessed this time around, there is barely even a visible divot there. I want to say that the camera hole is larger, but I’m thinking that it may simply be a trick of the eye.
[via iLounge]
If you’ve ever been surfing the net on your iPhone and been frustrated by having to log into the same sites every time you visit them, then I’ve got a cool fix for you. You’ll need to have a jailbroken iPhone (or iPod Touch) in order to use this. Just add http:/repo.ispazio.net to your sources in Inataller. Refresh, and search for iRemember. This will modify a few permissions that should allow your iPhone to keep your cookies around longer.
[via TUAW]
If you live in the UK and are intending upon getting in on the iPhone 3G action come launch day, you might keep an ear out for news about early registration. According to rumors, the company may be allowing customers to sign up for contracts before the launch date, thus alleviating some congestion on July 11th.
If the rumor is to be believed, starting July 1st, you’ll be able to walk into the store and sign up for your iPhone 3G contract. You’ll then be able to pick up your shiny new phone on July 11th and enter a registration number, which would then activate your new account.
I’m really not sure what I think of this practice. On one side, it would certainly get customers in and out of the store in a timely manner. However, those not in the know might not be able to get their hands on a phone come launch day, as they could potentially be sold out before the 11th. We’ll keep an eye out for any official word from O2.
[via MacRumors]
Dell ,Apple, Fujitsu, HTC, Lenovo, LG, Nokia, Panasonic, Palm, Samsung, and Toshiba have all been added to Typhoon Touch Technologies hit list. Typoon is accusing these companiesof using their patented ideas that date back to 1995 for teh touch computer. Their patents were so open ended and broad that they have been able to pull these companies in saying that all of their touch computing is in conflict with their ideas. They created the blueprints for their technology for the police departments based on touchscreen portable devices with built in computers.
They first began going after companies when Dell release their Latitude XT tablet, now they have brought in more than 10 companies. Everyone is unclear as to how far they wil get in these procedings.
What we do know about the lawsuit is that Typhoon is hoping to use them to generate a steady stream of revenue, as they are seaking injunctions against the products involved until companies agree to pay a “reasonable royalty”, on top of the financial damages they’re asking for.
[via iPhoneAlley]
We all know that when the original iPhone was released you had to wait in a line all day until 6, this year they are saying it might be a little different. There are rumors that a memo was sent out to all AT&T managers explaning that the release of the iPhone 3G will bedone at 8am to avoid long lines and the lengthy in store activations. Stay posted for more info!
[via BoyGeniusReport]
It’s always interesting to see how different analysts come up with numbers. Take for instance the raw cost of materials for the new iPhone 3G. Portelligent released their estimates not long ago which suggested that Apple’s cost was only roughly $100. Well iSuppli has taken a look and come up with a drastically different figure.
According to the recent findings from iSuppli, they believe Apple will be paying roughly $173 for materials and manufacturing of the 8GB iPhone 3G. While they are estimating $73 higher than Portelligent, that’s still considerably less than the original iPhone, which was around $226.
You can bet that Apple is hoping you spring for the 16GB model (I know I am) as it is estimated that the additional memory will only cost them $23 more than the 8GB model. Of course, we’ll be paying an extra $100, so that’s a nice $77 in Apple’s pocket.
[via AppleInsider]
As of now, we don’t know of any plans for AT&T to release a pre-paid plan for the iPhone 3G (in fact AT&T has said that they won’t be doing this at all, but you never know). Of course this isn’t the case overseas where many carriers will offer this choice. So just how many new iPhones will be pre-paid? While no one knows the answer, Piper Jaffray analys Gene Munster has an idea.
Munster believes that Apple is charging carriers around $425 for the phone, which they will in turn sell for $600 or more. He believes that roughly 1 out of every 10 3G iPhones sold will be one of these unsubsidized pre-paid phones.
[via Infinite Loop]
A recent article by Time magazine gained popularity by talking about the newest in technology, aka the iPhone, and porn sites being integrated easier into Safari on the iPhone. Currently Pornography websites have been integrating downloadable files into there database making it easy to copy onto your iPhone and watch on the go.
“It’s by far the porn-friendliest phone,” says Devan Cypher, representative for San Francisco–based Sin City Entertainment. As evidence of the gadget’s rocketing popularity in California’s capital, the San Fernando Valley, numerous iPhone-specific porn sites have been launched in recent months. “There are a few hundred iPhone porn sites now in use,” says Farley Cahen, vice president of business development for AVN Media Network, the adult industry’s trade body.
As the 3G release nears the adult entertainment industries prepare to launch sites that will be able to be accessed by the iPhone. With the overwhelming popularity of the iPhone this industry has seen an opportunity and gone after it with full force.
“Three out of four iPhone users are men with above-average incomes, and iPhone users spend heavily on entertainment. More than a third of iPhone users shell out more than $100 on phone and data charges every month, as compared with just one-fifth of other cell-phone users.”
One feature that will be included in the 2.0 release is the ability to set Parental Controls, disabling ever ‘accidentally’ stumbling accross a naughty site or two, or three, or four…
