Mobile marketers will be happy to know Apple’s iPhone goes on sale today at Apple stores nationwide.
All 164 Apple retail stores in the United States will stay open until midnight. Customers can purchase up to two iPhones on a first-come, first-served basis.
Beginning Saturday morning, iPhone customers can participate in free, in-depth workshops offered at Apple stores, each of which will offer support for the iPhone at the stores’ Genius Bars and personal training through Apple’s new One to One program.
To drive traffic to stores, Apple launched a major campaign with TV, print, e-mail, search and Web components.
The iPhone introduces a new user interface based on a multitouch display and software. The product combines mobile phone, iPod and Internet-enabled device for sending and receiving e-mail, browsing the Web and accessing maps.
Critics have questioned the exclusive plan Apple has with AT&T and the device’s relatively low storage potential. The 8G-version of the iPhone, the largest available, is rather small compared to other iPods, all of which are cheaper.
Overall, however, the reviews have been good. Gadget blog Engadget said the battery life is long lasting and The New York Times said even though it can take six moves to make a call the design is noteworthy.
