14 DAY TRIAL // iPhone 4, the latest model in the highly successful line from Apple, has gone available for pre-order today in certain markets around the world. The new device was unveiled officially last week, when Apple announced that it should hit the shelves on June 24. However, those interested in the device can order it in advance starting today.
Pre-orders have kicked off in certain markets around the world, including the United States and the UK. While in the US the handset is available exclusively on AT&T's airwaves, UK users can choose the carrier they want to use. Five operators in the country anounced plans to have the device available for their users, including O2, Orange, Vodafone, 3UK and T-Mobile. The good news for UK users is that they can get the iPhone unlocked in case they purchase it straight from Apple.
“When you purchase your iPhone from the Apple Online Store, you’ll get it SIM-free. So you can sign up for service with the carrier of your choice and change your carrier at any time,” the company states on its UK website. “iPhone may also be available at a reduced initial price with a contract directly from your wireless carrier,” Apple continues.
According to Apple, users can order in advance only two iPhone 4 units. The price tag for the device has been set at £499 for the 16GB model, while the 32GB version can be acquired for £599. The newly unveiled iPhone 3GS 8GB variant is also available for pre-order, priced at £419. Those interested in one of these should head over to Apple's UK website for more details on how to place an order.
In the meantime, we should mention that only the Black version of the device is being put on sale now. The White flavor is yet unavailable for pre-order, and there are no details available on when Apple might change its status.
[UPDATE] Shortly after publishing the story, we noticed that the iPhone 4 comes unlocked to France and Canada too. One can check on the device's availability on Apple's France and Canada websites, here and here, respectively.