Mac Addicted

While AT&T is putting a humongous $325 into Apple’s pocket for every AT&T enabled iPhone sold by Apple as well as an extra $100 bonus for iPhones bought by customers at any Apple store, Apple is busying itself in the UK negotiating with O2 that lets consumers in the European region to purchase a cheaper iPhone 3G. Of course the catch is that they would have to subscribe to O2 resulting in a win-win scenario for both Apple and O2.

O2 has also made it clear to Apple that it would require iPhone 3G’s customers to sign up for O2 call plans on the spot. However, one major drawback is brought up by the Apple store employees. They claim that it is too much hassle to check customers’ credit background in order to enable them to purchase an O2 iPhone 3G. Retail staff also has little experience in assisting customers with the registration process especially if it concerns subscription contracts. O2 promised to alleviate their problems by seeking out the ideal means for all parties to benefit.

Those who do not want to be tied down to a long term contract can instead opt for O2’s prepaid iPhones. These can be found in O2 and Carphone retail lots as well as all Apple stores nationwide. However, customers have to shell out approximately £350 for an unsubsidized iPhone 3G.