8GB 3G iPhone for $599 sans contract
July 2nd 2008
Bloomberg reports that AT&T will offer the 3G iPhone sans contract for $199 + $400. Buyers can also opt for month-by-month service plans.
"There's a small minority of people who for whatever reason want the latest and greatest phone, and don't want to be tied to the network for two years," said Michael Gartenberg, analyst, JupiterResearch. "It's going to cost you quite a bit for the privilege of not signing a contract."
"It's a marketing attempt by the company to get people in the door with the lure of no contracts," said Jennifer Fritzsche, analyst, Wachovia Securities. "Given the exorbitant price they're charging without the contract, once they're in the door it's an easy sale."
The move will leave critics of carrier lock-ins grumbling, but likely pre-empt consumer action.
Also, the $599 asking confirms previous rumors / analysis.
Editor's note: Price cut? What price cut?
