Only yesterday Vincent wondered out loud when the 16GB iPhone would drop, and today Apple have given him his answer: the upgraded handset, with twice the flash memory as before, is available from today for $499. Meanwhile, for those of you with smaller data ambitions, the original 8GB iPhone remains on sale for $399.
The news comes together with an addition to the iPod Touch range, in the shape of a 32GB model priced at $499. The 16GB and 8GB versions, priced at $399 and $299 respectively, remain available.
Apple Adds New iPhone & iPod touch Models
CUPERTINO, California—February 5, 2008—Apple® today added new models of the iPhone™ and iPod® touch which have double the memory, doubling the amount of music, photos and videos that customers can carry with them wherever they go. The revolutionary iPhone now comes in a new 16GB model for $499, joining the 8GB model for $399. iPod touch now comes in a 32GB model for $499, joining the 16GB model for $399 and the 8GB model for $299.
“For some users, there’s never enough memory,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPod and iPhone Product Marketing. “Now people can enjoy even more of their music, photos and videos on the most revolutionary mobile phone and best Wi-Fi mobile device in the world.”
Both iPhone and iPod touch feature Apple’s revolutionary Multi-Touch™ user interface and pioneering software that allows users to find and enjoy all their music, videos, photos and more with just a touch of their finger. All iPhone and iPod touch models include the latest software enhancements announced last month including the ability to automatically find your location using the new Maps application*; create Web Clips for your favorite websites; customize your home screen and watch movies from the new iTunes® Movie Rentals. Both iPhone and iPod touch feature the world’s most advanced mobile web browser in the world with Safari™ and great mobile applications including Mail, Maps, Stocks, Weather and Notes.
Pricing & Availability The new 16GB iPhone is available immediately for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) through the Apple Store® (www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores and AT&T retail and online stores. The 32GB iPod touch is available worldwide immediately for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) through the Apple Store (www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers. iTunes Movie Rentals are available in the US only. iPhone and iPod touch require a Mac® with a USB 2.0 port, Mac OS® X 10.4.10 or later and iTunes 7.6; or a Windows PC with a USB 2.0 port and Windows Vista or Windows XP Home or Professional (Service Pack 2) or later and iTunes 7.6.
*Availability and precision of Maps positioning features will vary depending on actual location.
Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and has entered the mobile phone market with its revolutionary iPhone.
FAQ: upgrading to the 16GB iPhone
Can I return my 8GB iPhone and get a 16GB model?
If you bought your 8GB iPhone 14 or fewer days ago, you can return it an purchase a 16GB model for $100 more. If the iPhone has been opened, you will also be responsible for a 10 percent restocking fee.
Is the 16GB iPhone available in Europe? How much is it?
The 16GB iPhone is available in both the UK and Germany. It’s priced at £329 in the UK and 499 Euros in Germany.
Do I need to sign a new contract for the 16GB iPhone?
No. You can yank your SIM card from your old phone and put it in the 16GB iPhone, activate it for free through iTunes and start using it with your current contract. It’s just like replacing a broken iPhone. Even if you don’t have your old SIM card, you can activate with a new SIM card and your account information will simply be updated.
Can I sell my 4GB or 8GB iPhone on eBay?
While there may soon be a glut of used 8GB iPhones available on eBay and through other channels, the devices are currently selling well — many with bids of $400 or more, likely due to demand from users in countries where the iPhone is currently not sold.
Where can you purchase an 16g Iphone for $499? Please someone let me know!
Curious, you can buy one of the new 16GB iPhones direct from Apple.com; alternatively, visit your local Apple or AT&T store, I’m sure they’d be happy to take your $499 off of you!