Unfortunately an unsubsidized (contract free) iPhone 3G price has not been announced nor confirmed here in the US. However, Vodafone Italy will sell unsubsidized 8GB iPhone 3G models for 499 euros and 16GB models for 599 euros both of which will be designed to be used with their prepaid plans. Based on the current exchange rate, a US buyer looking to import an unlocked iPhone 3G will spend $775 for the 8GB and $930 for the 16GB. If you are lucky enough to live in Italy or can make a quick field trip it may be worth your while considering the original iPhone 8GB was selling for nearly 399 euros at launch.
Other carriers, including At&t in the US have not announced unsubsidized pricing and we find it highly unlikely that a contract free model would be sold in the states. At&t learned their lesson the first time around with the original iPhone and has no plans of letting the unlocking spree reach a similar level with the iPhone 3G. In case you forgot, the internal memo from At&t outlines the process of activation this time around:
a short tether process to unbrick the 3G device will be performed in all AT&T stores (tether cords will be provided). Apple stores will also perform this tether process, however in the event that a customer’s device is not tethered in the Apple store, their device will be inoperable until they get home and tether through iTunes.
It will be possible to do some sort of in-home activation process as long as a contract has been signed in store with the iPhone 3G. Monthly rates will be $30/month for individuals and $45/month for enterprise users while MobileMe will be available for $99/year and could be the best MS Exchange alternative. We expect to hear new from a few more carriers regarding unsubsidized iPhone 3G pricing before iDay 2.0 and are still waiting to hear from At&t for the ‘unqualified customers’ iPhone 3G price.
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