14 DAY TRIAL // After the uproar over the iPhone price cut Apple decided to give early adopters a $100 in credit, which would be used at the Apple store. Controversy sprang yet again when the Apple site reported that the credit could not be used to purchase iTunes gift cards.
When Apple site clearly stated that the $100 could not be used to purchase iTunes gift cards, there was quite an uproar as many customers complained yet again. The core of the issue springs from the fact that the credit cannot be simply added to an iTunes account, and as such, the gift cards are the only way for users to use the credit for iTunes Store products. The restriction was seen as being unfair, considering that gift cards are an item that can be purchased at all Apple Stores, while other argued that it makes perfect sense considering that Apple Store and the iTunes Store are two very separate things. It did not take long for Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris to come forth and explain that the page is incorrect and that the credit can be used for purchasing iTunes gift cards.
Although customers wanting to use the credit for iTunes Store content were the most outspoken on the issue, many of the people receiving the early adopter credit are using it for other purposes. Besides all manner of accessories, the credit is being kept by many users for the purchase of Leopard, which is expected to ship in October. Of course, Windows users have little use for Apple operating systems, keyboards, mice and other products and the iTunes Store content is the natural choice.
Customers who bought their phones between June 29 and August 21 need to submit a claim by November 30. People who bought iPhones after August 21 can return to stores to receive a $200 refund. If they don't do this by September 19, they can claim a $100 store credit.