Preparing for iDay: iPhone Launch Details

We're eight days away from what some are calling iDay, and the anticipation is just killing me. So to ease my pain (and yours), I'll continue to bring you some updates leading up to the iPhone release.

One commenter on my last iPhone post said he was already camping out. People, we're still days away from launch. Don't you remember what happened to early Playstation 3 campers? Guess it doesn't matter since people will find a way to camp out, even if it's across the street from Apple or AT&T stores. Speaking of which, AT&T has hired 2,000 temp workers to handle sales of the much hyped iPhone. A report on Reuters says the iPhone will only be sold in stores at launch, so don't expect to bypass the mob by getting yours online. I'd love to hear more about data plans. Mark Siegel, an AT&T spokesman, said they plan to disclose rate plans before launch. He told iLounge, the plans won't be "anything exotic," and confirmed there will be both voice and data services. Regardless, I hope you're ready to commit yourself to a two-year contract with AT&T.

USA Today has an insightful report regarding launch. They interviewed Larry Carter, senior Vice president of Sales for AT&T, who says cities like New York City, Chicago and much of California will be well stocked since they're a natural market for smart phones and have a large number of iPod users. Oh, and to discourage resellers, aka scalpers, AT&T plans to limit the number of iPhones sold per person—hopefully to one.

Meanwhile, TUAW called a few AT&T stores who said each sale would take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. If you're transferring service, you should pack a current cell phone statement that has your account number. Expect to stand in line for a long time on iDay, or better yet wait until the frenzy dies out which will probably be two weeks after launch.

If you're going to disregard my advice, and campout anyway check out Gridskipper, who has set up a nice campout guide for you urban warriors in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City. I mean, we wouldn't want you to rough it the whole time, right? The guides have some insight on the closest motels, free bathrooms, Wi-Fi hotspots, and even bars in case you get a sudden urge to get your drink-on. Hey, if you're in San Francisco, don't forget to bookmark MizPee on your phone. It'll come in handy when you're looking for a clean restroom in the area. Gadling, also assembled an iPhone campout guide for you crazy kids. I like the idea of packing a few self-heating dinners, ala MRE (Meals Ready to Eat), but really, why even go there when there's probably a fast food restaurant nearby.

Whatever you do, remember to be safe out there. Nothing is worth risking your safety for, not even the iPhone.