Engadget got a call into AT&T rto answer a few user questions about the 3G iPhone. Here’s what they got: Can these devices be purchased and given as gifts? No. You will need to walk out of the AT&T or Apple store with the device activated. Greekjgg asks: What if I want to buy one for work which already uses AT&T for company account? I can’t activate in store, obviously, so will it be possible to to buy without a contract? We don’t have details yet but iPhones for business use will likely be provisioned through your company’s IT department. Tons of people ask: If I purchase an original iPhone from a friend will I be able to get the old data plan pricing? Or will I need to sign up at the new, more expensive rate?
Yes. You can get the old data plan price if someone gives you a device and you establish service for yourself. Chris and SeditioN VII ask: What’s the no-commitment price? We have not yet announced the unsubsidized price. We follow up: So you WILL be able to buy it without the two year commitment? We haven’t announced whether or not that will be offered. Vic asks: Will long-time customers who are otherwise eligible for a free or reduced-price handset upgrades be able to lower the price when buying the iPhone 3G?No one will pay less than $199 for the 8GB or $299 for the 16GB models. As you know, those are subsidized prices. Matt asks: Say I just recently signed up with AT&T, standard contract. Now I want to get an iPhone 3G — will I have to pay more than $199 for the phone because it’s subsidized? For example, if I were to upgrade to a Blackberry now, I can’t get the advertised $99 price (because I am a new, existing subscriber); my price is $374. It depends on whether or not you are eligible for an upgrade. We ask: What is the penalty for not activating the phone in 30 days? How will that be enforced?More
