14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has started handing out an internal iPhone 3G Frequently Asked Questions document to its Apple Retail Store staffers worldwide to inform them of what they should tell customers about the new device. AppleInsider has revealed that Apple is still struggling with the activation procedures but that useful information is also noted in the document from Apple.
"You may not place iPhone 3G on hold for anyone. No exceptions. Do not create a waitlist," Apple tells store managers in the document. "It is critical that all stores follow the same process to ensure every customer has an equal and fair opportunity to purchase a phone."
In case any customer asks, "we hope to offer Personal Shopping for iPhone 3G shortly," Apple advises staffers to say. Or, if a customer comes up to them and 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 staff must reply saying that they they "don't have any information regarding upgrades." Less than a month to launch and Apple hasn't decided on these simple things...?
The document also reveals that one individual can buy more than just one iPhone 3G unit for business and have Apple setting them up in one of its stores, as long as the said business uses a consumer rate plan, AppleInsider points out. This part of the document goes a bit like this:
"If your business uses a corporate plan, sometimes called a CRU or IRU plan, you will need to go to an AT&T store to purchase the iPhone 3G for your employees," Apple says. Small business owners can also benefit from volume discounts if they "contact an AT&T representative." AT&T, the document states "offers corporate billing and data plans."
If customers ask about using the new device in Canada and other countries, Apple reps are encouraged to tell them that "iPhone 3G is a world phone." Currently, AT&T holds more information about international roaming fees and data plans, Apple claims.
Also, potential customers "will need to sign a new two-year contract at the point of purchase, but "may want to check with AT&T regarding any fees," should they ask about one-time fees associated with moving from a first-generation iPhone to an iPhone 3G.
Last, "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," the document reveals, according to AppleInsider.
The publication notes that prior to the new iPhone's launch (July 11), Apple will begin to detail the specifics of launch procedures to its staff. This is allegedly happening on July 6th.