Really? No, wait. Ok now? Maybe. Ok how about now? Yeah, now. In a completely unexpected turn of events, AT&T has just announced that it has begun offering free WiFi connectivity to iPhone users at more than 17,000 hotspots around the country. And yes, by “unexpected” we mean completely expected and overdue. Since AT&T’s launch/pull/launch/pull stunt earlier this year, the future was a bit unclear for AT&T’s free WiFi offering for iPhones. Included in the 17,000 hotspot sum by the way, is each and every AT&T hotspot-equipped Starbucks location in the US. A week after the launch of the iPhone 3G and amidst accusations that AT&T and Apple are intentionally manufacturing handset shortages, now might be the perfect time to have announced the old new offering. The one oddity in all this, at least as to the timing of the announcement, is that AT&T and Apple just went to great lengths in pushing AT&T’s 3G network. Hell, the iPhone is even named “3G”. So if this new faster iPhone on AT&T’s high speed is so fantastic, why do we need free WiFi?

[Thanks Ron]

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Every once in a while, we have a slow enough day at the BGR HQ that we sometimes put on our “nerd glasses” and peruse our web server logs for some nitty gritty information. As we are a fairly popular gadget and technology blog, (no, we’re not declaring war) it seems like a popular ‘first destination’ for many people who have loaded up the latest beta OS for an existing device or even unreleased devices not yet on the market.

Needless to say, over the last few days, we have noticed some interesting build numbers for the iPhone and iPhone 3G. It appears that AT&T and Apple are testing iPhone device software version 2.0.1, builds 5B101 (iPhone) and 5B103 (iPhone 3G). Although we are not certain of much more information than this little bit, we do know that testing began prior to the launch of device software 2.0 and the iPhone 3G on July 11th. We have also narrowed down the known test users to the San Francisco (40 mins from Cupertino) and Atlanta (HQ of AT&T Mobility) areas. Hmm.

Regardless, this shows that Apple has a nice headstart on what will likely be the first major update to the iPhone 3G… and perhaps we’ll even get an official iChat client!

P.S. - Don’t forget our totally awesome iPhone 3G giveaway, ok? You’ll be getting OS 2.0.1 soon enough…

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For some reason, Palm and AT&T have conspired to lower the price of their Centro handheld by a full $30. The diminutive little bugger is now on sale via all retail channels for the bargain basement price of $69.99. Sure, it will cost you in the form of a 2-year contract, but if the $199 iPhone 3G is a bit too expensive for your taste, the Centro might suffice as a suitable stand-in…that is, of course, if you’re completely blind. Sure, the Centro sports a likeable, if outdated, interface, and a number of useful features, but at the end of the day we think you’d have to be crazy to spend good money on a device that runs off the 2.5G EDGE network, and has a keyboard designed for babies and people with abnormally small fingers. That said, if $69.99 seems like too good of a deal to pass up, head on over to your local AT&T store, bypass the lines of crying iPhone customers, and pick one up for yourself. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you.

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You didn’t really think we wouldn’t do it, did you? Well it’s happening! First things first… our previous iPhone 3G giveaway winner! We didn’t forget about you — no way. The winner of the previous iPhone 3G giveaway is Jackie Franco! You will be getting an congratulatory email with instructions momentarily. We said if more than one person picked the correct date, we’d pick one of them at random. Now, on to the rest of y’all! We’re giving away your choice of either a 16GB black iPhone 3G or a white one. When you win, just let us know which one you want. Ah, but how do you win? Come on, this is BGR. Enter a comment, no hoops to jump through. Official rules below.

• The iPhone 3G giveaway will run until Sunday July 20th at 11:59PM ET.
• All you have to do to enter is drop in a comment — that’s it!
• Please enter once and only once. You know what happens when we get angries.
• The iPhone you will receive if you win will be brand new and unopened. It also, obviously, will not be activated.
• Good luck!

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Tired of the onslaught of iPhone 3G news? You’re going to have to bear with us a little longer, friends. We just got word on some semi-strange but sensible iPhone 3G shipment policies. Here’s how it goes: AT&T stores have already received most likely two shipments of iPhone 3Gs. All AT&T stores will be getting a third shipment of iPhone 3Gs tomorrow, but there’s a catch. They can’t sell Friday’s shipment until Saturday. And guess what? There’s a fourth shipment coming Saturday, and you guessed it — they can’t sell those until Sunday. While this might mean some poor souls in line won’t be getting their iPhone 3Gs tomorrow, if they don’t get there early enough, it gives everyone who couldn’t scam their way out of work a chance to live again. What’s the verdict on the policy? Yay, or nay?

Thanks, Ronnie!

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There’s been a ton of confusion over the handset pricing on Apple’s iPhone 3G on AT&T. Stevie announced they’d go for $199 and $299 for the 8GB and 16GB models, but obviously that’s a subsidized price. We just got a hold of the final pricing for the iPhone 3G, and we even have a no-contract price for you! Boy, you’re not going to be happy, though. Here’s the breakdown:

• iPhone 3G will be available for $199 for the 8GB model and $299 for the 16GB model. These prices require two-year contracts and are available to the following customers:
• iPhone customers who purchased before July 11
• Customers activating a new line with AT&T
• Current AT&T customers who are eligible, at the time of purchase, for an upgrade discount
• Existing AT&T customers who are not currently eligible for an upgrade discount can purchase iPhone 3G for $399 for the 8GB model or $499 for the 16GB model. Both options require a new two-year service agreement.
• Here’s the interesting part… “ In the future, AT&T will offer a no-contract-required option for $599 (8GB) or $699 (16GB).”

Looks like after the initial launch period, you will indeed be able to mosey on in and pay for an iPhone without dealing with a wireless contract at the time of purchase. Let the unlocking games begin!

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Yeah, the answer would appear to be “Yes!” Roughly 1 week before the new iPhone 3G becomes available, there seems to be a line forming in front of the 5th Avenue Apple Store. The collection of folks has formed with the specific intention of breaking the world record for longest time waiting in line. If you ask us, it’s not the most effective use of 7 days of your life, but if breaking obscure and meaningless records is your thing, you might want to jog down and latch on to this gravy train. Given the slightly diminished demand for the new iPhone relative to last year’s bum rush, coupled with Apple’s tendency to meet initial consumer demand for new products, we don’t think you’ll need to hit the line more than 30 minutes or so before the doors open to secure a handset on the 11th, but extreme measures never hurt a soul, right? Unless you’re an infant waiting in line because you parents forced you so you could break the above meaningless world record.

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Looking for your AT&T fix for the remainder of 2008? We’ve got you covered. The carrier has a number of exciting new handsets planned for the coming months, which should be good news for both the carrier and consumers. Everyone loves selection, right? Right. First up, AT&T is planning to release the BlackBerry Curve 8320 (yeah, we’re scratching our heads too), and the BlackBerry Bold by the end of Q3. On the Windows Mobile side of things, AT&T is planning to drop the Samsung BlackJack III, which should see Windows Mobile 6.1, a 528 MHz processor, 3MP camera, aGPS, and more. Look for a new Pantech Duo sporting Windows Mobile 6.1, GPS, HSDPA, and a 528MHz processor. They also alluded to an HTC Tilt replacement, tentatively dubbed the Tilt II, which should feature a Qualcomm 528 MHz processor, aGPS, HSDPA, 256MB ROM/ 128MB, and more. Touch Pro anyone? Expect to see all three of those by Q4 of this year. Excited yet? Yeah, we thought so, but why stop here. AT&T is also planning a slew of Windows Mobile 6.1 upgrades for existing handsets. The current Pantech Duo should see 6.1 by October, while the BlackJack II, Moto Q9h, and AT&T Tilt will get the royal treatment by July.

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AT&T has just posted a whole bunch of official iPhone 3G info on its site this morning as it prepares for the hoards of people waiting to snag the new Apple handset on July 11. First and foremost is the announcement that the iPhone 3G will be available for sale at 8:00 am next Friday. Wait, where have we heard that before? We’re guessing there are going to be some pretty early lines forming this year. Next comes the official plan pricing which goes as follows:

AT&T Nation (unlimited data included)

• $69.99 - 450 anytime minutes, 45¢ each addtl minute, 5,000 night / weekend minutes
• $89.99 - 900 anytime minutes, 40¢ each addtl minute, unlimited night / weekend minutes
• $109.99 - 1,350 anytime minutes, 35¢ each addtl minute, unlimited night / weekend minutes
• $129.99 - Unlimited minutes

AT&T FamilyTalk (includes 2 lines, unlimited data & night / weekend minutes, $39.99 each additional line)

• $129.99 - 700 anytime minutes, 45¢ each addtl minute
• $149.99 - 1,400 anytime minutes, 40¢ each addtl minute
• $169.99 - 2,100 anytime minutes, 35¢ each addtl minute
• $209.99 - 3,000 anytime minutes, 25¢ each addtl minute
• $259.99 - 4,000 anytime minutes, 20¢ each addtl minute
• $359.99 - 6,000 anytime minutes, 20¢ each addtl minute
• $259.99 - Unlimited minutes ($129.99 each additional line)

Add Text Plan

• $5 - 200 messages per month (individual plan)
• $15 - 1,500 messages per month (individual plan)
• $20 - Unlimited messages (individual plan)
• $30 - Unlimited messages (FamilyTalk plan)
• 20¢ per message if no plan is selected

Beyond all that, the contract price points were announced by Stevo at WWDC so there’s no news there. AT&T customers who aren’t eligible for an upgrade will pay a $200 premium ($399.99 for the 8 GB and $499 for the 16 GB) so the $200 subsidy rumor was indeed spot on. There is also an interesting note found on the site: “Coming soon, AT&T will offer a no-commitment option of $599 for 8GB and $699 for 16GB.” Re-he-healy?

[Thanks to all who sent this in]

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Check this out. New reports are coming in that a very interesting memo is currently circulating internally at AT&T. Said memo reportedly lists a variety of features that will supposedly be included on the upcoming iPhone 3G. Among them is an exciting new service that - get this - allows you to send SMS-like messages that include multimedia attachments. Imagine! The service, cleverly named Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) supposedly allows users to attach one or more image, audio file or even video and deliver the message along with text. The recipient of the message will then see and / or hear the multimedia on his or her mobile. Nutty. None of this is confirmed as of yet, but how sweet would it be if a mobile phone had functionality like this?! Oh Apple, you’ve done it again! Next thing you know we’ll find out that Apple has figured out a way to copy text from one place and paste it to another. Ok, that’s just crazy talk.

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That’s what our AT&T boys in blue are sayin’! Want some details on it? Well, it’s rumored to have all the usual AT&T stuff like AT&T Music, AT&T Video, AT&T Navigator, and more. But, it’s also going to have AT&T Mobile TV, too. The other specs are pretty well know: a Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional device with a 5 megapixel camera with face detection, quad-band EDGE, UMTS, HSDPA, 3.2″ WQVGA touch screen (sadly it’s 240×400), Bluetooth, and either 8GB or 16GB of internal memory. We’re working on some press shots for y’all, but in the meantime, go on and keep comparing it to the iPhone 3G…

Thanks, Omie!

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Rumor though this may be, we wouldn’t be too surprised to see the Samsung i788 hitting AT&T sometime in the near future. The handset is essentially a Blackjack III, sporting a form factor that will be more than familiar to current Blackjack I and II owners. The i788 is a Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional device, complete with touch screen, HSDPA, GPS, WiFi, Samsung’s bizarro optical mouse pointer, and more. Unfortunately, it appears to retain the current Blackjack’s keyboard layout, which ranks as one of our least favorite amongst current generation QWERTY handsets. Even so, we can imagine more than a few people jumping at the gate to get their hands on one of these bad boys. No promises that this will actually land AT&T, but recent reports of carrier-branded versions of the handset in the wild lend credence to the possibility. Time will tell.

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We’ve got two independant tips on this date, so let’s hope it pans out to be true. AT&T corporate is still telling their Fortune 500 customers that the Bold will launch in “July/August”. Hopefully Rogers will swift kick them in the ass and get them moving. What’s holding up the Bold, you ask? Well, nothing. The units went into production a while ago and the latest software build is extremely stable. It’s all up to the carriers now. What say you, friendly Canadians? Raiding a Rogers store on June 25th for a BlackBerry Bold? Our previous Rogers release dates were spot on, so we’ll see!

UPDATE: We’re now hearing July 17th with the launch party on July 8th… go figure.

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According to recent reports from iPhone Atlas, AT&T will not be offering a tethering plan for the iPhone 3G. Tethering of course, is the process whereby a handset is connected to a computer via cable or bluetooth so that the computer can make use of the handset’s data connectivity. Preventing tethering with the iPhone 3G is a pretty ridiculous move when considering that the rest of AT&T’s 3G arsenal can be used to tether. It’s a travesty, right? Wrong. Theorectically this issue shouldn’t be a big one at all. After all, tethering is sooooo 2004. Now that Apple has finally caught up to its competitors in terms of opening the OS X mobile platform to third-party development, lack of tethering should be remedied rather quickly. Just as apps like JoikuSpot Light and WalkingHotSpot transform an S60 handset into a pocketable WiFi hotspot, developers will likely attack this territory on the iPhone as well. Why bother with tethering when you can make use of WiFi and create multiple WEP / WPA-secured connections with a single device? Developers, the gauntlet has been laid.

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By now even your grandmother knows what Apple announced today. But what about the fine print? What about the $199 and $299 pricing? Well, as some of you might have guessed, those prices are only with contracts with a carrier. We just got a hold of an internal AT&T email to store managers and it details almost every single detail of Apple’s iPhone 3G. Here’s a list of the most important/interesting points we found, followed by the entire email:

• iPhone 3G will be activated at point of sale when the device is purchased in store. 
• Return period has been changed from 14 days to 30 days
• $199 and $299 pricing is for new activations or qualified upgrades with a 2-year agreement
• 2G iPhone data rate plans will remain available for 2G device suntil further notice
• The new iPhone 3G data plan is $30/month and includes unlimited data and visual voicemail
• There is not a no commitment price. This means you can’t just walk in and bang $500 on your credit card and walk out. 
• If you are an existing iPhone customer in good standing, you will be able to extend your contract for two years when the iPhone 3G launches and get the ill-na-na $199/$299 price point. Doesn’t matter when you bought an iPhone either.
• AT&T and Apple stores “unbrick” the iPhone 3G at time of purchase, but for some reason if that doesn’t happen, you’ll be required to use iTunes at home.
• Pre-paid and Pick Your Plan will not be allowed on iPhone 3G
• Device purchase limit remains at (3) per customer in AT&T stores.
• 2G iPhones to remain as demo models in AT&T stores “until further notice”.
• AT&T stores will get rate brochures, 22 x 28 posters, and window banners
• Launch day will mirror last year’s launch. This includes extended store hours, crowd controls, etc. Security will be provided to stores requesting armed police or guards.
• AT&T is working with Apple to roll out GPS-enabled applications.

There you have, folks! Almost everything you wanted to know, and a lot of stuff you didn’t. Full email is after the break!

AT&T and Apple today announced that the iPhone 3G will be available in the U.S on July 11. iPhone 3G combines three products into one small, lightweight device: a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod, and it puts the Internet in your pocket with the best e-mail, web browsing, search and maps applications ever on a mobile phone.

The new version of the iPhone harnesses the power of AT&T’s broad and powerful 3G mobile broadband network, which offers 3G mobile phones download speeds of up to 1.4 Mbps. 

Key Device Features:

Operates on Wi-Fi, EDGE, and 3G networks
New enterprise e-mail capability with support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync
New iPhone software development kit (SDK) to support new innovative applications
Note: 2G iPhone customers will be able to download the iPhone 2.0 software from iTunes which enables new features such as access to corporate e-mail via Microsoft ActiveSync.

New Activation Process and BRE:
The iPhone 3G will be activated at point of sale when the device is purchased, in store.  The BRE period will change from 14 days to 30 days and will require the device to be returned to place of purchase before service is cancelled. 

Pricing and Plans
Device Pricing:
$199 8GB and $299 16GB for new activations and qualified upgrades with 2-year agreement.

Data Plans and Pricing:
The iPhone 3G will be activated on existing AT&T voice rate plans, but new data plans have been created for the 3G device.

All iPhone 3G customers are required to have one of the new data plans and qualifying voice plan.
Customers intending to use the iPhone 3G for access to corporate e-mail, business applications, or access to corporate intranet are required to activate with Enterprise Data Plan for iPhone.
The 2G data rate plans will remain available for 2G devices until further notice.
IRU service discounts for both voice and data pans will apply to iPhone 3G, but not 2G iPhone.
CRU service discounts for voice and data will apply to both 2G and 3G, when on a qualifying data plan.
IRUs will not get a discount on device purchase for 2G or iPhone 3Gs. 
Data Pricing will be as follows:
Consumer Data Plan (must be added to qualified voice plan):
$30 - Unlimited Data (E-mail/Web), includes Visual Voicemail

Enterprise Data Plan (must be added to qualified voice plan):
$45 – Unlimited Data with personal and corporate e-mail, web, includes Visual Voicemail

Upgrade Eligibility and Qualified Upgrade Pricing
Upgrade eligibility will be determined based on standard upgrade eligibility rules.  Customers must be upgrade eligible to receive the qualified upgrade pricing.  However, not all customers will be qualified upgrades. AT&T has not determined the price of the 3G device for non-qualified upgrades.

All customers will be required to sign a 2-year agreement.  There will not be a “no commitment” price for the iPhone 3G.

Note: When the 3G device launches, all active postpaid customers in good standing with a 2G iPhone will be eligible to receive the qualified upgrade pricing for a 3G device regardless of service tenure. (Customers that would not otherwise be eligible due to tenure will be made eligible at launch).

Activation Process
The new 3G device will be activated in store in both AT&T and Apple stores.  Customers must accept AT&T and Apple Ts & Cs, sign a 2-year agreement, and select the data plan for the iPhone 3G before leaving the store.  The current iTunes activation process will no longer be required for iPhone 3Gs, however 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.  Prepaid and Pick Your Plan will not be allowed on the 3G device.

The SSK has been modified to allow customers interested in the iPhone 3G to enter their information, select rate plans and data plans, and print a document that will allow COR reps to quickly access the customer’s information in OPUS and save time for data entry in the activation process.

Note: In the interim, 2G iPhones will continue to be activated via iTunes - BAU.   This is also true for existing AT&T customers who receive a 2G device as a gift, hand-me-down, etc. and wish to activate the device.  Existing AT&T customers who switch to the 2G iPhone must tether through the iTunes process to begin using the device.

Compensation
Because the 3G device will be activated in store, compensation for the 3G device will be BAU.  COR reps will receive compensation for upgrades and new activations with a 2-year agreement.

Purchase Limit
The device purchase limit will remain three (3) per customer for iPhone 3G in AT&T stores.

Allocations
If allocations are required at launch, supply chain will allocate based on January-April sales rates applied on a store-by-store basis.

Direct Fulfillment
The DF tool will be available at launch in COR for iPhone 3Gs.  Customers will be required to pay for the device when the order is placed and the phone will be shipped to the store in the customer’s name.

Existing Stock of 2G Devices
We will continue to sell 2G devices until stock is depleted.

Return Policy
2G Devices
Customers who recently purchased a 2G iPhone may want to return their device once they hear about the 3G model and price point, but the new device will not be available immediately. Since the announcement and launch will be about 30 days apart, we could lose some customers who are within their BRE period and want to return their device before their 14 days expires and wait for the new 3G device.  We must acknowledge and address their desire to get the best device for them.

Here’s how AT&T will handle 2G iPhone returns:

If a customer purchased before 5/27, we will follow BAU processes – no device returns.   However, all postpaid 2G iPhone customers in good standing are upgrade eligible, so these customers will qualify to upgrade to a 3G iPhone when it is available.
If a customer purchased on or after 5/27 (within the 14-day BRE period before the product announcement on 6/9), we will let them exchange their 2G iPhone for an iPhone 3G before August 1.  This means that after we launch the 3G model they can return their 2G iPhone, pay the 10% restocking fee, and purchase a new iPhone 3G before August 1.
Note:  This modified return policy applies only to customers who purchase from AT&T stores.

3G Devices
The return policy for 3G is changing from 14 days to 30 days for both Apple and AT&T stores.

To cancel service within the first 30 days, the customer must return their equipment to the place of purchase (no exceptions). 
If the customer cancels service after 30 days, they will be charged the ETF.  The customer is not required to return the device to cancel after 30 days.
Special Notes Regarding 2G Devices

After the iPhone 3G launches, activations of 2G iPhones for new AT&T customers can be performed in COR stores or in the existing iTunes tether process.  COR reps will receive compensation for activations of new AT&T customers done in store.
2G upgrades will continue to be activated via the existing iTunes tether process.
Existing 2G data plans will remain available for 2G devices until further notice.
Note: 2G iPhones are out of stock in the DCs, and the Direct Fulfillment tool for 2G is turned off. 2G iPhones have been removed from the “myRewards” incentive catalog.

Merchandising/Marketing

Current 2G iPhones should remain on device fixtures in store.  Do not remove 2G demo devices until further notice.
3G demos will be pulled from stock when they arrive following BAU process for display devices.
Video loop content will be pushed to stores when it is available.
New docks and retrofit kits will be provided for existing iPhone fixtures.
The following merchandising elements will be in stores for launch:

Rate brochure and display rate card
22 x 28 poster
Window banner
Duratrans - will be available for markets to order
Coming Soon: Posters and banners are TBD
Training

Device training, including features and functionality, will be available via My CSP by 6/13.
OPUS training will begin no later than 6/20 and will be delivered via the Learning Edge.
Launch preparedness training, including last minute details, will be conducted the week of launch (if needed) via RSM or Centra sessions.
Communications/My CSP
All iPhone-related communications, inclusive of training announcements, will be posted to My CSP. Login and access are via the “Everything iPhone 3G” ad space.  Or search on either keyword “iZone” or keyword “iPhone 3G” to locate.

Launch Plans
Support logistics for launch day will mirror last year’s iPhone launch:

Letters will be sent to all landlords under VP/GM signature for advance notice of store hours, crowds expected, possible parking issues, etc.
Security will be provided for locations requesting armed police or unarmed, uniformed guards.
Manager checklists will be provided to support RSMs to set expectations and help them be prepared to complete all required actions.
Documents will be posted on iZone to let RSMs know when to expect delivery of launch support materials.
Job descriptions for key launch day functions will be provided for: Back Office Manager/Inventory Runner, Crowd Manager, Greeter, Product Demonstrator, and Security Support.

***Confidential AT&T Information. For Internal Distribution Only.***

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If you managed to stay awake through the beginning of today’s WWDC Keynote, which was no small feat, you’re probably already aware of the big news. Apple has officially announced the next generation iPhone. The iPhone 3G sports many of the enhancements that have been rumored for months, including 3G data, GPS, updated design, better battery life, and much more. It will also be much cheaper, launching at $199 for the 8GB model and $299 for the 16GB. The 8GB will be available in black, and the 16GB will launch in both black and white. The new phone will ship with iPhone firmware 2.0, which will include support for Apple’s new “exchange for the rest of us” dubbed MobileMe. The phone looks like a fantastic update to the existing model, but sadly won’t be available until July 11th. Honestly, this killed our morning. What good is a shiny new iPhone if we can’t get our hands on it? Seriously. Hit the link for the official Apple page. Thoughts? Disappointment? Anger? Excitement? Bewilderment? Let us know, as we’ve got plenty of time to discuss the thing before it actually launches in July. Did we mention that this killed our morning? Right.

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We just got this message from someone who works for AT&T. It was sent by upper-management to stores:

“Just an FYI that as of today, the only iPhones left to sell are those in your inventory rooms in store. There will no longer be any availability online or via direct fulfillment from either Att.com or Apple.com as I understand.

That means that you should leverage this and sell those you have ASAP as you are the ONLY place someone can buy an iPhone at right now!”

Not something we didn’t really know, but it looks like there will no stock of any iPhones until the new one is released. We’d bet it’s coming sooner than later, as in next week. Could Apple really afford to release it at the end of the month with no stock left at all now?

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It’s here, it’s gone, it’s here, it’s gone, it’s here. It took a fair number of misfires and tweaks but AT&T and Starbucks have finally launched the free WiFi service we’ve been waiting for, well, for a long time. The catch? There are actually several. Truth be told, this free WiFi deal isn’t free at all. The two biggies:

• Only available to paying customers: In order to access free WiFi, you’ll need to purchase and use a Starbucks card. Also, free WiFi access is only available to those who have used their Starbucks cards in the past 30 days.
• Only available in 2-hour clips: Customers can only use WiFi for two consecutive hours each day. Want more? Get a paid AT&T plan.

So in its final released version, complimentary AT&T WiFi access is not being billed as “free”. Starbucks is calling it “a way to thank our loyal customers”. AT&T Laptop Connect customers with an applicable plan still have their own deal for free WiFi and we should be seeing something similar launch for smartphones this year as well. In the meantime you’ll need to keep sucking down that liquid crack to play without paying.

[Via Gear Diary]

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Remember last year just before the initial iPhone launch? EDGE dropped off for a while and then came back with a vengeance. Prior to the iPhone waterfall that clogged up all of AT&T’s shiny new pipes, we were seeing data speeds of up to 200 - 250 kbps on AT&T’s EDGE network in the New York area. Then the iPhone dropped. Here we are again, getting close to the inevitable iPhone 2 release and oddly enough, AT&T’s 3G services started getting spotty yesterday afternoon in the New York area. Outages sometimes lasted several hours at a time. This morning however, 3G seems to be live again in and to the west of New York City. What’s more, it looks like HSDPA speeds have received a nice little boost since coming back up. For the past few months we’ve been seeing average download speeds between 500 - 800 kbps with a spike here and there. This morning’s tests however, are yielding between 1400 - 1500 kbps. Nice. We’re now hearing that AT&T 3G is still down to the north of the city so one can only assume we’re in the midst of some rolling upgrades. Enjoy it while it lasts people; the iPhone 2 will be out soon enough and AT&T’s networks will be hammered just like last year.

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The long wait is over. HTC and Best Buy are finally getting ready to make the North American version of the HTC Touch Dual available to U.S. customers. The handset will be on sale at Best Buy retail locations, on the Best Buy website, and through any specialized Best Buy Mobile store. The big news here is that the Touch Dual will come complete with Windows Mobile 6.1, making it one of the first handsets on the market to sport the revamped operating system. Other highlights include HSDPA, 2 megapixel camera, and HTC’s soon-to-be-obsolete TouchFLO interface. Expect to shell out $549 before tax.

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Back on Wednesday we told you about AT&T’s plans to drastically improve its HSPA coverage by the end of June. Needless to say, the move is related to the impending release of the 3G iPhone that we all hate hearing about. If you recall, EDGE speeds more than doubled just prior to the release of the first iPhone so the timing of these HSPA upgrades only make sense. But wait, why is AT&T so keen on stressing the addition of HSUPA with speeds up to 800 Kbps? Clearly it has something to do with the upcoming 3G iPhone, but what could eat up so much bandwidth in that direction? Ahhh, how about video calling? Rumors surfaced a while back that the new iPhone will sport a front-facing camera and 1 + 1 = 2 last we checked. This people, will be the true test of Apple fanboyism - if it’s true of course. Video calling has been around forever and it has hardly been the rage that many thought it would be years ago. If Apple can manage to get people not only excited about video calling, but also actually using video calling, then Stevie really can do anything…

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We love our gadgets as much, if not more, than the next guy, but this has to be one of the most ridiculous things we’ve seen in quite some time. There’s currently a massive line forming in front of the 5th Avenue Flagship Apple Store. According to reports on the ground, the crowd is forming in anticipation of the new 2nd Generation iPhone launch. Cool, but aren’t you guys a bit early? Yeah. We thought so. While the 3G iPhone is certainly coming soon, there’s nothing whatsoever to indicate that today is the drop date. Sure, Apple might drop a huge surprise on us, but we’re guessing that the 60-some-odd folks in line are either casualties of a successful prank, foreigners looking for a “true American experience”, or just plain confused. Sheep mentality is a funny thing, folks. 

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The long, cold wait for an official HTC TyTN II Windows Mobile 6.1 build will soon be over. According to several sources, HTC is in the final stages of preparing an official firmware update. The revamped OS will be made available for HTC branded devices sometime over the next several days, with an AT&T version for the Tilt coming sometime after that. Nothing unexpected in the actual update, with threaded SMS, a Getting Started Wizard, and modest performance improvements topping the list of changes. We’d still recommend loading this one up, however, so stay tuned for the upcoming official launch.

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Here’s some good news, folks. AT&T has just announced that they will have full HSPA coverage across their entire 3G network by the end of June. Currently, 275 AT&T markets sport full HSDPA/HSUPA coverage. That number is expected to rise to 350 by the end of next month. If all this sounds a bit familiar, you’re probably on to something. The company embarked on a massive EDGE network upgrade last year, just prior to the release of the EDGE capable iPhone. It’s no secret that Apple’s new handset will sport a 3G radio, and the proposed USP improvements are no-doubt related to the impending launch. As excited as we are, we’d still love to see full 3G penetration across their entire network, but we’re guessing that might take a bit longer.

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We’re not joking people, BGR ninjas don’t sleep. On Monday we told you that AT&T was finally coming around and getting ready to offer decent handset insurance. We’ve all had those rough nights that end up with a smashed cell phone and a walk of shame. No worries though; that walk is about to get slightly less shameful. Internal AT&T memo as follows:

Wireless Phone Insurance offers customers protection against loss, theft, or accidental damage to their wireless device. Beginning June 2, 2008, Wireless Phone Insurance will expand its coverage to include all high-end phones and PDAs.

What is changing on June 2 with Wireless Phone Insurance?

Wireless Phone Insurance eligibility is being extended include high-end phones and PDAs (except Apple iPhone).

Depending on model, device deductibles will be in two tiers:

Equipment Tier 1: $50 non-refundable deductible per approved claim.

Equipment Tier 2: $125 non-refundable deductible per approved claim (for incident dates on/after November 3, 2008; $50 deductible for pre November 3, 2008 incident dates).

For new activations and upgrades if Wireless Phone Insurance is not selected as a feature on the account, a pop-up message in the billing system will alert sales reps to advise customers that they have 30 days in which to enroll in Wireless Phone Insurance.

For more information, see Know the Facts or the presentation on Wireless Phone Insurance Expanded Coverage for High-End Devices and PDAs.

Who could have guessed that the ONE device not covered by the new insurance offering would be the iPhone? Hmmm, everyone.

[Thanks Anonymous Tipster]

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Here we go again! AT&T will be doing the free WiFi dance that we’ve all become familiar with, but this time it has nothing to do with iPhones. Starting tomorrow, Tuesday May 20th, all Laptop Connect customers will be able to enjoy free WiFi at each and every AT&T hotspot. AT&T’s internal correspondence on the matter:

Effective tomorrow, May 20th, the long-awaited FREE WiFi Access to over 17,000 WiFi locations throughout the U.S. launches for Laptop Connect Customers with plans $60 or higher. This exciting new feature will allow customers unlimited access to over 17,000 WiFi locations at no extra charge including locations in Starbucks and McDonalds. Customers will need three things for this free access:

• A laptop card. FREE WiFi for Smartphones is not available yet, but will be later in 2008.
• The latest version of Communication Manager (version 6.8). Once loaded this version will automatically log onto AT&T hotspots.
• A Laptop Connect plan of $60 or greater.

Note that first bullet: “FREE WiFi for Smartphones is not available yet, but will be later in 2008.” Does that mean all smartphone users will soon be able to enjoy free WiFi? All of the sudden our drawers full of unlocked smartphones aren’t looking so hot! In the meantime, AT&T Laptop Connect customers, enjoy. Let’s all hope it sticks this time…

[Thanks, Anonymous Tipster]

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Soon the days of worrying about accidental damage to your ATT Tilt, or other PDA device, will be long gone. While we have yet to confirm this with AT&T themselves, it looks like the wireless company is getting ready to roll out a new insurance program that will cover all of the devices that they currently offer. Previous insurance programs have only been available for low-cost phones, with high-end smartphones left out to dry. Beginning June 2nd, however, that will be a thing of the past. For $4.99/month, subscribers can secure a replacement device should their current handset suffer some unmentionable fate. Better yet, the new plan only requires a $50 deductible for replacement. Good news all around, folks.

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There’s been a flood of news over the past couple weeks regarding the iPhone and carrier partnerships. Almost every single major carrier across the globe has chimed in, telling us what markets they’re going to bring the iPhone to. It’s actually gotten to the point we’re we feel we should list the announced markets up to today. Remember asking your best friend to pickup 10 iPhones during his trip to the U.S.? No more, people. No more. Here’s the complete list as of 05/16/08:

• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Canada
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• Egypt
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Ireland
• India
• Italy
• Jordan
• Mexico
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Turkey
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Various countries in Latin America

Who’s planning to buy an iPhone when it’s finally released in your country?

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Trying to understand what AT&T’s plans are with regards to free WiFi for the iPhone is like trying to understand a Galvatron comment. Be sure you have a healthy dose of Tylenol on deck and expect to walk away perplexed. First it went live, then it was dropped - then it went up again, then back down - then a May 15 launch was scheduled, then it was missed. The following internal memo was circulated yesterday at AT&T:

The iPhone Wi-Fi offer that was scheduled to launch today has been canceled. Nothing has been announced by the company to our customers and will not impact existing customers. Additional communication will be provided if the status the project changes.

So at some point, AT&T will be offering free WiFi for iPhone users and inadvertently to anyone with a laptop and enough savvy to search Google and spoof their system with Safari and an active iPhone number. Then again, perhaps the latter half of that statement is the cause of the repeated delays.

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