Aug 22, 2011 16:01 GMT  ·  By

It appears that iPhone 3GS has just become one of the cheapest smartphones manufactured by Apple these days, as the device is now offered for free by many carriers and major retailers in North America.

The last on the long list of retailers and operators that offer great deals on iPhone 3GS is Best Buy, which recently announced a special offer for those who are still interested to purchase this device.

Best Buy has just announced that it will offer a free AT&T 8GB iPhone 3GS smartphone on Monday, August 22.

According to the major retailer, this is an exclusive one-day offer and is available in-store only at Best Buy and Best Buy Mobile specialty stores, either as new or upgrade with two-year activation.

Customers who purchase the iPhone 3GS will also be offered an array of services aimed at improving their experience, including Walk Out Working, Upgrade Checker, Happy 24 and a full array of accessories meant to protect and personalize their device.

The iPhone 4 received the same treatment from carriers and retailers all over North America, as the device is now available for around $100 with contract.

It is obvious that all carriers and retailers are preparing to receive new stocks of the next-generation iPhone 5, which is expected to hit shelves in October.

Once the iPhone 5 hits the market, it will be difficult to sell older iPhone models. The demand for the new iPhone is expected to be very high, hence the need to get rid of the old devices that are still in stock.

On related news, Bell, Virgin Mobile and TELUS are also offering the same deal on the 8GB iPhone 3GS, but customer will have to sign a new 3-year contract.

Surprisingly, the phone's suggested retail price remained the same, which means that customers who wish to purchase the iPhone 3GS without a contract will have to pay no less than $550 outright.