UK iPhone 3G launch becomes shambolic
O2 are really messing up the launch of the new iPhone 3G in the UK. As an O2 customer, this does not surprise me. As part of our iPhone coverage here at DigitalBurn, please enjoy following the four point shambles below. On the other hand, if you live in the UK, we’re sorry on your behalf but feel free to comment with your experiences.
Point one. O2 randomly decided to send out a late batch of SMS messages to existing customers letting them know they can upgrade to the iPhone 3G. However, the phone carrier clearly didn’t cater accordingly to the (obvious) increase in demand for the said phone since the system became overloaded and those that are trying to make their upgrade were timing out. But that’s not all!
Point two. If you have been stuck waiting for the system to iron out its creases, think again. O2 and the Carphone Warehouse are reporting that the iPhone 3G pre-order stock is now sold out. Customers are being encouraged to come back on the 10th of July for more information. More last minute chaos anyone?
Point three. Even if you were lucky enough to pre-order the new iPhone, you were unable to specify the colour. That is because Apple is only shipping black versions in for launch! O2 decided they would keep this a secret and just leave its customers confused.
Point four. If you were planning on nabbing the new iPhone on PAYG, prepare to be fooled again. If you are not a fan of contracts but wanted the device thinking you would only have to wait one month or so, you will have to wait until Christmas. Wow!
Unable to cope with the high demand, O2 are flailing like a fish out of water, but at least they have formally acknowledged the problem. On the flip side, Apple is looking pretty with the subsidised iPhone 3G prices appearing to be a major hit. Either way, whatever country you are living in, we hope you fare better than the Brits.
Popularity: 3% [?]
I hate to hear that for the UK customers…
[...] white iPhones in stock in the UK As our very own James Tromans has reported, no white iPhones will be available at launch on Friday; only black devices will be in stock. O2 [...]