More details have emerged about first-day sales of this Friday’s debut of the iPhone 3G, including that Apple stores across the country will open at 8 a.m. for the debut, and hope to process 100 customers per hour. In an interview with Bloomberg.com, Sr. VP Retail Ron Johnson said, “Our expectation is that in 10 to 15 minutes you’ll be set up and ready to go.” He predicted “strong demand” for the iPhone 3G, but added, “Our goal is to always have enough supply for every customer.” Lastly, Johnson said customers will not be rushed out the door “We’ll spend as long as it takes with our customers to make sure they’re happy with the phone.” A promotional e-mail sent to registered Mac/iPhone users says, “It’s here for you Friday. And so are we.” The e-mail includes links to several Web pages of information, including one for Personal Setup service when, “a Specialist will help you choose your phone, select a rate plan, and–best of all–have your new iPhone 3G ready to make calls, browse the web, and receive email right on the spot. A second link goes to the existing Retail Web page describing workshops at the stores. A “What to bring” link explains a buyer’s need for a credit card, Social Security number, valid, government-issued photo ID and any current wireless account information. Sources say Apple is expecting long lines and crowds, and is prepared to handle them with security teams and “all hands on deck” staffing. All Genius Bar, One to One and other training sessions have been cancelled for Friday. The Fifth Avenue (NYC) store will close at midnight and re-open at 8 a.m. for the iPhone debut. Like the first iPhone model, Apple will post daily store-by-store availability on this Web page. Update: Sources say that Apple stores in other countries will not be selling the iPhone 3G model, for reasons that are still unclear.
Here’s the e-mail that Apple sent to persons who have registered Apple products:
On the Monday before the debut, window displays changed to spotlight the new iPhone 3G, and a three-panel, 4-1/4″ x 7″ brochure appeared promoting AT&T’s pricing plans.
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Stores are ready for launch day. It’s a “all hands on deck” event just like Black Friday or an OS X launch. However, after that, stores are not staffed to sell the iPhone. With large crowds due to Back to School promotion, there isn’t enough staff to spend 20-30 minutes with customers to pick out a phone, a plan, accessories, and activate the phone. There are going to be a lot of angry customers waiting around for help.
How about poor little Canada…
Seems the iPhone 3G launch will be lack-luster this Friday. Rogers/Fido are the only stores selling iPhone 3G. Their staff are not properly trained and stock quantities will be low. Apple Stores in Canada are providing workshop, Personal Training/Genius Bar support only at this time, and will be selling limited third party accessories. Let’s see what happens next…
iPhone launch not yet to my Country, and another iPhone 3G just launch … ooh poor Indonesia :D