How Do I Get My Hands On An iPhone?

It’s finally here. It’s hot. It’s unique. And it’s very hard to get. What am I talking about? The new iPhone from Apple and AT&T. This is supposed to be the new device that will change the world. Sure, they laughed at the iPod, and see where it is now. What do you think will happen with this gizmo?

Most people these days, children included, carry cell phones and iPods. More and more people are carrying both, so the next logical step is to bring them together into a single sleek package, right? Don’t worry, Apple is one step ahead of you with its highly anticipated gadget called the iPhone. Want to know how to get your hooks on one? Follow these steps and you just might be the first person on your block to have one.

Ask yourself if you really need it. To begin with, you should know that the iPhone is a cell phone, and is exclusive to AT&T. If you already have a functional cell phone with another company, it may not be wise to cancel your contract and buy an iPhone just yet. Better to wait until your contract expires, then sign with AT&T and get an iPhone.

Start saving. The iPhone, as one might expect, isn’t cheap. Expect to pay (after sales tax and possibly shipping fees if you buy online) $550 to $650 for the iPhone itself. The basic iPhone runs $499 (for the 4gb model), but that’s if you sign a two-year contract with AT&T. Plan prices range from $59 to $99.

If this doesn’t appeal to you, you may want to consider an alternative, such as an iPod (if you don’t already have one) or a handheld PC of some kind (like a BlackBerry). Also note that AT&T can (and probably will) require a large deposit if your credit score isn’t exceptional. Check your local electronics retailer. While online stores may not have any details, most major retailers will probably (if they aren’t already) take reservations on iPhones. If you’re the type who needs to have the latest and greatest gadget as soon as possible, find your local electronics store and ask about a reservation. Check for it online, often. Many online retailers have little or no details about the iPhone, but keep an eye on them. Their postings will change shortly before the iPhone is released. Read the fine print! There are a lot of online auctions for iPhone merchandise, even now. Be sure to read exactly what you’re bidding on before you place your bid. Lots of people are selling iPhone-related goods or even iPhone-related email addresses and domain names. They may have the picture of the iPhone on the site, but be aware that what you see is not always what you get. Be cautious, be thorough, and make absolutely sure you know what you’re bidding on.

Do you have a question that you want answered? So do we! But we’re at a loss for the answer to our question. So why don’t you just ask us your question at How Do I? and see if either we can or one of our many viewers can answer it? Maybe…

[tags]iphone, apple[/tags]