Tue, 09 Jun 2009 iPhone 3G S - O2 UK upgrade information

Chris said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

It's understandable that O2 expect you to pay an upgrade price, after all, you wouldn't get that treatment for any other brand of phone. But they're missing Apple's key demographic, full of users who want to have the latest technology. Due to the contract lengths of 18 months, I predict many people will skip this generation completely, to upgrade in June '10, which will be disappointing for many apple fans, and Apple themselves.

Richard said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Any reason why I couldn't sell my 16GB 3G and buy a PAYG 32GB 3GS. Then put my current SIM in the PAYG?

Andy said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Yes. The shit storm has begun and deservedly so, on Twitter, on Facebook, in the media, on calls to customer services, in complaints emails to complaintsreviewservice@o2.co.uk and damn right! They deserve all the crap they get for treating high-value iPhone customers in this way.

David Robinson said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

In reply to Richard's query your current contract sim will be fine in a PAYG iPhone.

Mark said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I was considering upgrading but I don't think I'll bother now. After last years screw ups and the length of time I had to wait to get 16gb model I don't have a lot of faith in O2 any more, certainly not enough to lock myself into a 24 month contract.

Andy said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

And your quote from Sarah Taylor? She is lying at worst, being very unspecific at best. I was told £312 to upgrade, 12 months into my contract with just six more to go paying the £44.05 tariff. They can stuff that and as soon as my contract's done I'm off - bad for O2, bad for Apple, no matter how anyone bleats about subsidies. Sure, subsidies - but how much do they make every month from iPhone users? It's a bad, bad joke. On us. Whoever came up with this as a good policy needs to get sacked and go pick carrots for a living.

Paul said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Love the PAYG idea.

1. Sell current contract phone (I got in early and just sold mine for £280!)

2. Buy PAYG for £440 - £160 difference

3. Use current contract SIM until June next year

4. Use free upgrade for inevitable new iPhone release in 2010

5. Sell iPhone 3GS for £200 (hopefully!) and make a £40 profit.

Silly idea? Hope not!

Jon said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I paid full price for my iPhone last July, ergo it isn't subsidized.

Being forced into a new contract is bad enough but FORGET IT O2, I'll just wait another year for the next model. Maybe by that time Apple will move to a better carrier as well.

Apple - you listening? Time for you to kick some backside with these nickel-dimers, otherwise many aren't buying. TFB's

GusPrestonpans said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Sure I would love to Upgrade next week. I bought the original iPhone on launch day and upgraded to 3G on launch day. However I think people are forgetting two things:

1. From what I remember, o2 customers got a far better deal than A&T last time when we were allowed to upgrade and sign a new contract. This is not something that would have been done with other phones.

2. Last time it was a major phone upgrade. This time the FREE software update is giving us the majority of new features.

Yes I would love a 3G S but unless O2 changes their upgrade policy I am excitedly waiting for 3.0 next week and will get my new phone in Dec/Jan.

Christiaan said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I was wondering the same thing as Richard. Can I use a new PAYG phone with my current contract?

Jon said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I paid full price for my iPhone last July, ergo it isn't subsidized.

Being forced into a new contract is bad enough but FORGET IT O2, I'll just wait another year for the next model. Maybe by that time Apple will move to a better carrier as well.

Apple - you listening? Time for you to kick some backside with these nickel-dimers, otherwise many aren't buying. TFB's

Joel said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Paul, that sounds like a good idea, i had the same one. The only question is whether the contract sim would work in the PAYG phone. And what are you going to do for the next week and a half?

Christiaan said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I just phoned O2 and the person I spoke to confirmed that I would be able to buy a PAYG phone and use my current contract sim card with it.

Joel said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Just phoned O2 and they said I could use the current sim card in a PAYG phone.

Siobhán said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

The prices are daft in a recession or otherwise, waiting six months to to upgrade is a pain and the tethering costs are just plain mean. There's no flexibility for people like me who would want to use tethering only occasionally. I have the 8gb iPhone as the 16 gb was barely in supply last July - I bought the 8 as I couldn't get a 16. Mine is pretty full now and I would definitely buy a 32gb if O2 weren't so venal. But O2's coverage is useless anyway and I just wish I could get back to Vodafone. These problems will inhibit UK sales of the 3GS and Apple needs to wake up to O2 and give it to a carrier who can sell the thing.

Bill said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

O2 are ripping us off. With the product cycle set to one year and them setting their contracts to 18month min this is never going to work. Why on earth would I upgrade and get the same problem on next years iPhone. Why on earth would I have to pay the full amount on my existing contract just to finish it. what about all those texts and mins I've paid for!

wilvo said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Ok folks, calm down.

Firstly the Gs is nowhere near as big of an upgrade as the G was. What's the Gs giving you that 3.0 isn't? Speed, better camera and a compass. Why not simply hang on until the next revision.

As for O2, as a carrier I think they've been pretty good, very few carriers offered such an attractive upgrade option on the 3G. The first gen phone wasn't subsidised, so O2 weren't being financially penalised by upgrading you.

Me, I'll wait for the iphone 4G, maybe then it will have a decent camera.

Daftbrush said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Thank God for the compass!!! How have we been coping without it?

Seriously though what are Apple thinking, placing a compass on the front page of the 3Gs. The phone is GPS enabled, you don't need a medieval pointing device on the front of the most advanced handheld phone on the market. Surely Apple know there's an App for that. Or am I missing something here?

Joel said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I disagree Daftbrush, Its annoying when your walking about and your constantly turning your phone around to match up roads. Its hardly a bad thing to include

@Daftbrush said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

You are missing nothing, a stupid idea that, no doubt, so director thought of and no-one had the balls to tell it it was crap.

Jon H said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

If Apple & O2 are going to present the price of the phone as, for example, £99 (even though the actual cost as we all know is much higher) surely their upgrade pricing should at the least reflect that stated value and reward customer loyalty in some way. So far, I don't see that here in UK.

@Daftbrush etc said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

You're muppets. The point of the internal Magnometer is not so that you can have a compass App - that's simply included as a nice app to play with, proof of concept if you like.

The real strength is that the Maps app can orient itself to the way you're facing, which is useful, and also should assist the Turn-by-turn GPS Apps being developed.

In short, just because you don't understand what it's for doesn't make it not useful.

Craig said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

The reason for the compass is that GPS signals do not give an accurate bearing. Unless you can walk very very fast, and even then it's suspect.

A compass sells more apps, so a logical feature addition.

Bob Caygeon said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

GPS will only tell you which direction you are heading in if you're moving and if it has good visibility of at least 3 satellites. The compass would be useful if you're using the iPhone in conditions where this may not be possible, mountainous or densely wooded areas for example.

But as the iPhone appears to be optimised for navigation in the urban environment, I'll stick to my medieval compass and an OS Explorer map. At least the map won't disappear when I get out of mobile range.

Craikeybaby said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

If you sign a contract you have to honour it, or get penalised, I don't see why everyone thinks the iPhone would be any different!

Tethering is the going rate for 3G dongles, but it would be good if they offered a PAYG option for the iPhone tethering like they do for the dongles, I'd only use it in an emergency so £15 a month is too expensive for me.

Bob Caygeon said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

GPS will only tell you which direction you are heading in if you're moving and if it has good visibility of at least 3 satellites. The compass would be useful if you're using the iPhone in conditions where this may not be possible, mountainous or densely wooded areas for example.

But as the iPhone appears to be optimised for navigation in the urban environment, I'll stick to my medieval compass and an OS Explorer map. At least the map won't disappear when I get out of mobile range.

Neil S said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

So, at the time when more touch phones are appearing than ever Apple up the price.

You made my choice for me.

Bob Caygeon said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

The tethering charges should really be looked at by the regulator OFCOM. The O2 contract has an unlimited data policy linked to a device which can natively and directly stream and download large files - and this is going to increase with the new iTunes features. Why then do O2 feel the need to cap the tethering useage and impose further charges? The monthly contract charges are not really going to put the iPhone in competition with mobile broadband tariffs.

Iestyn said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I really don't get what all the 3G owners are winging about, you have a great phone and get a free update to OS 3.0. Try an early upgrade with any other phone on any other network.
Consumerism is just getting way out of hand, be happy with what you've got, you signed up to that 18/24 month contract remember, no one forced you. Get over it.

nimrodsun said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

the person at O2 who didn't base the iPhone 3G subsidy over 12 months (even for an 18 month contract) should loose their job, today.

When you make customers unhappy, they leave. It's just that simple. Sure, I'll buy out my contract. But then I'll import the iPhone from another country, jailbreak it and become a vodafone customer. I'll move my broadband from O2 too, rather than pay the extra.

@Bob Caygeon said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

It's very simple and I don't really get how people don't understand it.

Tethering will massively increase the amount of data that is used by iPhones. I value my iPhone unlimited data and there's no way I want to have it at risk because some cheapskates won't pay for 'laptop' data at the going rate.

Steve said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

This whole mobile phone think sucks. £790 for 18 months of a few calls, a few texts, and a bit of Web. No 3G at work and at home. A phone with a screen defect that Apple won't accept. Why do I put up with this?

Kris said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

This really sucks. I'm paying 52 a month for my plan with o2, as I got the unlimited text bundle. I could get the same deal with orange, with better signal, for 34.50. That's EXACTLY THE SAME! I pay an extra 20 p/m just to have an iPhone. I deserve an early upgrade ffs!

John R said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Here's my take on the problem which echos what some other people have said.

The a large part of the contract cost for an iPhone 3g is not to subsidise the phone. It's to pay for calls, texts and data use. Therefore, if you want to upgrade and start a new contract with o2, being asked to pay off the entire contract is unreasonable.

They should find a sum that is reasonable. Something like £100 to cancel the contract early. Not the over £200 that is being suggested.

I agree with many that if I were not able to upgrade for the new features now, then there is no chance I will upgrade in 6 months when offered. As this would only mean I would be unable to upgrade 6 months later when the inevitable iPhone 2010 would be launched.

Or maybe even worse...by that point Android might have a decent app store and a better selection of handsets...

MJD said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Has anybody asked 02 what they will offer for the current handset? - Rather than sell on ebay an 02 refurb must be marketable, if not in the UK then elsewhere - this could allow them a trade in value against the new model and a new income stream.

Kris said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

This really sucks. I'm paying 52 a month for my plan with o2, as I got the unlimited text bundle. I could get the same deal with orange, with better signal, for 34.50. That's EXACTLY THE SAME! I pay an extra 20 p/m just to have an iPhone. I deserve an early upgrade ffs!

Jan said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Consider signing this Twitter petition if you are unhappy about O2's lack of a reasonable early upgrade to the iPhone 3GS: twitition.com/owzm4

Iain said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Why oh why do people always bang on about pricing on Apple products?? The o2 iPhone contract is like any other phone contract, if you want to get out of it you have to pay for it! Stop bitching and moaning, enjoy the 3.0 software update, which should virtually transform the 3G into a new phone anyway, and just wait until your contract is up like everyone else!

Kris said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Sorry for the double post, my bad. I agree regarding the tethering. How can they charge extra if I already have unlimited data and wifi included in my plan? And would I still have to pay extra if I just used the cydia tethering app?

M.X.N.T.4.1. said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I can understand you having to pay up your contract in terms of them having subsidised the phone in the first place. I wouldn't expect them to write of the remaining portion of that money, the problem is that they asking you to pay off the entire monthly amount you pay, which implies that the cost of the calls, texts and data cost them absolutely nothing. If I hadn't taken a phone, ie they hadn't had to subsidise it, would they have given me all the minutes etc for nothing? Of course they wouldn't. Whatever they subsisided should be charged pro-rata for the remaning time, any cost for calls etc will be charged under the new contract.

jinlser said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I am running the beta os3. IMHO i never have the 16gb full anyways??!! why would i upgrade??
O2 are total pants at customer service.
More units would have been sold with vodafone fa shizzle

philip said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I've been using 3.0 all through the Beta and now with the GM version. Really, apart from things that should have been in the Iphone V1 from the word go (MMS, stereo bluetooth, C&P etc) , very little is different to 2.2.1.
The annoyance people feel over this is the fact that many people were told, by O2 and Carphone warehouse that "Yes you will be able to upgrade if a new model comes out" when they purchased the 3G. Whichever way you look at it, the upgrade offered to the 3G users made most think this would be the norm, and as such an 18 month contract wouldn't be a problem.
This WAS implied by O2 and as such what they have done is wrong.
What I don't get is, do they really expect all the people who haven't bothered getting an Iphone yet are really going to purchase a 3Gs? Considering the minor fixes in the 3Gs? No, us, the Current Iphone user base are the ones who would have upgraded and signed on for another 18 months. Big mistake, they will not sell many.

Pete K said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

There are lots of alternatives now, very good ones. No way on earth would I take out any of these contracts with O2.

philip said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I've been using 3.0 all through the Beta and now with the GM version. Really, apart from things that should have been in the Iphone V1 from the word go (MMS, stereo bluetooth, C&P etc) , very little is different to 2.2.1.
The annoyance people feel over this is the fact that many people were told, by O2 and Carphone warehouse that "Yes you will be able to upgrade if a new model comes out" when they purchased the 3G. Whichever way you look at it, the upgrade offered to the 3G users made most think this would be the norm, and as such an 18 month contract wouldn't be a problem.
This WAS implied by O2 and as such what they have done is wrong.
What I don't get is, do they really expect all the people who haven't bothered getting an Iphone yet are really going to purchase a 3Gs? Considering the minor fixes in the 3Gs? No, us, the Current Iphone user base are the ones who would have upgraded and signed on for another 18 months. Big mistake, they will not sell many.

Kris said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

So I just went to the o2 store. I just asked the guy if they planned to let 3g owners upgrade early as per last year. He said he knew nothing yet and he only found out about the 3gs today. I said what about what the PR manager said and repeated info above. He then had a shifty look and said "well....I have heard that" and then said "don't worry, just keep checking the website. Last year they said the same but changed their minds every other day". So here's hoping. I also asked about lowering my contract to the 35 pm one, saying I could get the same deal as 45pm on orange for 30. He said, yeah you won't get the iPhone though. I laughed and just said I'll just jb it and yellowsn0w and he said good idea!

Alex said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I can understand the frustration, but at the end of the day all iphone users have entered into a contractual relationship! i.e. Please read the terms carefully and if you agree then sign on the dotted line! this included 18/24 month longevity.

With any other product or service you would expect to pay out the monthly premium until the end of said relationship!

Big T said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I am really annoyed i just signed up to 18 month's with iphone on the 15/05/09 thats 3 weeks ago after the salesman in the shop telling me there is not going to be a new iphone out for at least 6 months and to hear i got 18 months to wait or buy my contract out 02 are robbing theives treating customers like crap

Alex said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I can understand the frustration, but at the end of the day all iphone users have entered into a contractual relationship! i.e. Please read the terms carefully and if you agree then sign on the dotted line! this included 18/24 month longevity.

With any other product or service you would expect to pay out the monthly premium until the end of said relationship!

Grumpy Giraffe said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

And the fact that people plan to 'jailbreak' it - which, should any of you still be unclear, is illegal - is the very reason why these things cost so much.

I agree that O2 are crap and, if it were possible, I'd avoid them like the plague, but, Apple have decided to continue the exclusivity thing here in the UK and we have to either except that or go elswhere for another phone. The issues you all have with contracts are rediculous though. You'll have the same problem with any contract you ever sign, so live out the contract you were happy enough to sign before and then sign for another one.

Besides, I've never even seen an O2 or Carphone Warehouse stock, demo or even advertise the iPhone (except for the posters they all put in the windows for the couple of months before a release) and I've always been told that they don't bother because it's crap and nobody's interested. It's pretty much impossible to track one these things down!

Bullbloke said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Really agree with wilvo, why so much problem about... Are we doing the same with our computer everytime they upgrade it...
We knew that we were signing for 18 months, so them people should take a pay as you go, and not sign a contract, there problem would be solved.
But like the majority, we prefer to have our phone for free ;) or the cheapest price as possible.

This 3GS is not an amazing new iphone compare to the actual 3g.

Mister P said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

@Big T

You been living in a cave?

You believed a salesman?

Buyer beware...

Deano said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Apple want to sell product so why use a robbing carrier like O2, this proves beyond doubt that competition rules no one should upgrade and then let )2 explain to apple the poor uptake in the Uk and get voda shipping the iphone 3GS as well. I for one will pick one will lobby apple to stop 02 robbing us. We should all not buy the 3GS and see the price tumble when Apple give 02 a slap

sip said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I have the original iPhone 16GB -- bought it as soon as the jailbreak/unlock facility became available, and will probably do the same if a JB/UL option becomes available for the 3G(S), otherwise I’ll just live with my current phone.

The silent/vibrate switch on my lad’s iPhone 2G stopped working and stuck in vibrate mode. After holding the phone for two/three months (until the warranty expired) Apple/O2/carphonewarehouse refused to repair it, stating user abuse. The phone has hardly been used and still looks brand new.

I opened up the iPhone and found that the lever on the miniature switch had snapped-off -- definitely NOT user abuse. Set the switch to ring mode and told the lad to zero the volume when he wanted silent mode.

I refuse to move to O2, even though I’ve twice asked for a PAC code from my current network.

Shama said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

How is is illegal to jailbreak the iphone? If i buy the PYG phone from O2, its MINE. I'm not signing anything that says I cannot do what I want to it.

Gmac said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

Whats the point of upgrading anyway? Both the original Iphone (which I have), and the Iphone 3G are great. 99% of the upgrade is in the software, so whats all the fuss about? Stick with your current phone and enjoy the new software for free.

o2elcrapeo said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

If you get the PYG iPhone you only get the 8GB with 3G & 16GB with 3GS.

mr miyagi said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I really don't know why you lot are all crying and moaning about this for. At the end of the day you guy's all entered into a contract with O2 to stick with a Handset for the duration of the contract. What network do you know that actually let people break the contract early and upgrade? None. You don't see people who have Nokia N95's complaining and wanting to upgrade early to a Nokia N95 8GIG do you? Get real people. and just see out your current contract and then decide what you want to do. Only reason why o2 let people upgrade from 2G iphone early is because you paid full price for that handset at the time. No need for them to do that again. End of the day its a business.

mr miyagi said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

plus end of the day you have all entered into a legal contract by accepting term and conditions to see out a contract and pay the monthly line rental. those who aint happy on contracts should consider pay as you go.

crazytrain said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

To everyone saying essentially "stop complaining, you signed a contract" - yes you're correct. However, my complaint, along with several others above, is that if I want to upgrade to the new version, O2 are asking me to pay for my calls ant=d txts twice over ie. to buy out the FULL COST of my existing contract and then pay it all again in the new contract. As I said in my original post, if O2 are "sensible" about this and take account of this potential double charging then I'd be happy...

mr miyagi said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

crazytrain nothing wrong with what O2 are asking you to do. They are simply asking you to pay for the line rental money that you agreed to pay in your contract.

Jaketh_1990 said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I understand that were in for the long haul with the contract and thats understandable. But when i brought my Iphone, December 08 i was told when the next generation comes out a easy upgrade plan would be avaiable.

In other news.
What the hell is everyone going on about? Vodaphone good? There the worst network you can get. No coverage. Anywhere.

o2 are scamming theives in the contract department but with something like the iPhone everyone would.

I would laugh if o2 lost the rights to Iphone and Voda took it and boosted the price.

Then who is the better company?

Jaketh_1990 said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

I understand that were in for the long haul with the contract and thats understandable. But when i brought my Iphone, December 08 i was told when the next generation comes out a easy upgrade plan would be avaiable.

In other news.
What the hell is everyone going on about? Vodaphone good? There the worst network you can get. No coverage. Anywhere.

o2 are scamming theives in the contract department but with something like the iPhone everyone would.

I would laugh if o2 lost the rights to Iphone and Voda took it and boosted the price.

Then who is the better company?

Con said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

02 have made a balls of this and people who say we are being stupid about complaining are just jealous!! I'm gutted about hearing this I've heard rumours about the new iPhone for a few weeks now and couldn't wait and was waiting to order now I think I'll wait apple and 02 are going to lose out unless they change there policy what a scam and mate I would stick to your nokia and get a propa job

Avantone said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

So given O2's logic, as I never bothered upgrading my original iPhone for a 3G, could they be persuaded to let me upgrade to the 3GS early ; )

Avantone said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

So given O2's logic, as I never bothered upgrading my original iPhone for a 3G, could they be persuaded to let me upgrade to the 3GS early ; )

Rob said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

The problem here is not the contract/subsidy issue, though this could have been explained by 02 ahead of the next launch given the much publicised 'free early upgrade' last time.

The problem now is that the cycle of 18 months or 24 months runs in the face of Apple's clear refresh cycle. I am sure Apple and their partners will be looking closely at this.

I want the new iPhone, but by the time December rolls around, I would be nuts to buy the 3GS at this rate rather than simply waiting for Apple to introduce the next one. That's not me being bitter, just practical...

James said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

You could, buy a new 3GS outright for around £480 (Pay as You Go model) and swap sim cards with your old 2G /3G contract iphone. 

Use the 3GS for six months then get a new contract with o2 (keeping your number) with a free iPhone or around £59 (by then). Then sell the 'PAYG' 3GS and use the contract one, or sell the contract model for top price as it's new and use the 6 months old 3GS version.

Ian Smith said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

First off, I think o2's customer service has been nothing short of fabulous since day one, I say this as a previous o2 customer who had abandoned them for their originally appalling CS.

I think the pricing policy is commercially suspect but entirely understandable. I am deeply disappointed that I might have to miss out on this model, I sincerley hope that o2 and apple reconsider, however I find it ridiculous that hundreds of you are bleating about not being allowed to break a legal contract which you all voluntarily signed - the whole, I didnt think they'd hold me to it argument is just balls.

Furthermore, how many people have so little to do with their lives that they trawl iphone forums just to post negative comments about hardware they have no intention of buying.

crazytrain said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

@ mr miyagi
I'm sorry, either I'm not explaining it very well, or you're being obtuse. If I sign up for another 18 months then they're still getting the line rental etc from me. If I wanted to cancel my previous contract and walk away from O2 then I totally agree they would be perfectly within their rights to ask for the full amount. Strictly speaking of course, legally within the contract they can do that now too. However, in terms of customer relations and PR, what I am suggesting is that it would be a good idea and "sensible" to think about this and break down the monthly fee into "what it costs to recoup the iphone subsidy" and "what it costs for line rental, calls and texts". Then charge me the former to upgrade to the new version and I sign a new contract - hey presto, I'm happy and they don't get all the bad press that they're currently getting (justifiable (legally) or not).

Kris said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

Latest from O2 website.... at least they are giving an option now. Hopefully they bow to pressure haha..

Halfway down here >> shop.o2.co.uk/update/paymonth dot h tee em el

Chris Parker said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

MazumaMobile.com will buy your iPhone 3G 16GB for £200. I sold my first gen iPhone to them - £140 at the time.

Chris Parker said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

MazumaMobile.com will buy your iPhone 3G 16GB for £200. I sold my first gen iPhone to them - £140 at the time.

david@brownratmusic.com said on Wed, 10 Jun 2009

Has anyone considered that the reason for O2's "smash and grab" behaviour is the they have failed to renew the licence to sell iphones with apple. In September it will have been 2 years. Is this behaviour that of a company about to lose a lucrative contract and who is trying to get as much money from it's customers knowing it is going to lose them. Why otherwise would they treat their loyal apple "fan" this way...?

brian said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

How come on the apple website in teh sates the most exoensive iphone is like $289 dollars or something while here its over £500 pound to buy. What if i bought a 16gb gs from the states where my fiance lives would it work here with an o2 pay as you go

Quarry said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

@briant

It's rip off britain innit?

Nah, not really. You just didn't read the small print

. (2) Requires new two-year AT&T wireless service contract, sold separately to qualified customers; credit check required; must be 18 or older.

That's the same deal as the O2. Pay for the phone and take out a contract. for some reason Apple can't sell the contract phone directly in the UK, so that's the price for the Pay & Go phone.

If anything the AT&T deal in the USA is even more expensive than the O2 one in the UK. I'm not sure if they even do Pay & Go in the USA.

Rave from the Grave said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

You want a real laugh about O2 and iPhones go on O2 Ireland. Think your hard done by.

ascylto said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

I have no problem with paying to end my contract. I signed it, if they want the money for the remaining 6 months that's fine. I'd like a loyalty discount but they don't have to give it.

What i DO have a problem with is the o2 calculator. They want £185 for a $199 phone. Now my calculator says £125 ... add a bit to account for US Sales Tax and we'll say £140. NOT £185!!!

By this attempt to rip us off (and I DO like o2 as a carrier and have my broadband with them) o2 have lost me as an upgrader – and so have Apple.

I'll have enough fun with the 3.0 software, which is free, and wait until the next iteration of the iPhone after my contract ends.

Barry Durocher said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

Hello
What happens to people that have an Ipod touch. Can they download the software.
Thank you
Barry

Ascylto said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

sip said on Tue, 09 Jun 2009

The silent/vibrate switch on my lad’s iPhone 2G stopped working and stuck in vibrate mode. After holding the phone for two/three months (until the warranty expired) Apple/O2/carphonewarehouse refused to repair it, stating user abuse. The phone has hardly been used and still looks brand new.

I opened up the iPhone and found that the lever on the miniature switch had snapped-off -- definitely NOT user abuse. Set the switch to ring mode and told the lad to zero the volume when he wanted silent mode.

Where did you take the phone? I took mine with exactly the same problem to my local Apple Store and they replaced it on the spot with a brand new iPhone.

Ascylto said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

Barry Durocher asks bout the 3.0 software for the iPod Touch.

AFAIK the Touch can also download the new software but there will be a small charge (as before).

Adam said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

as i never bothered to upgrade my first gen Iphone to 3G when it came out would they have any reason not too let me upgrade considering i paid full price for my Iphone there for not being subsidized?? i have a couple Months left on contract

Adam said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

as i never bothered to upgrade my first gen Iphone to 3G when it came out would they have any reason not too let me upgrade considering i paid full price for my Iphone there for not being subsidized?? i have a couple Months left on contract

who me said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

why do the majority of iphone users expect to be able to leave a contract earlry just becuase of a new release, why carnt you just wait till the end of your contract and upgrade then if you have to.
You new the deal when you signed up, dont cry about it now. Show some respect to the company you signed and agreement with and dont cry like a little spoilt rich kid.
just learn some patience and u can upgrade in time.

who me said on Thu, 11 Jun 2009

why do the majority of iphone users expect to be able to leave a contract earlry just becuase of a new release, why carnt you just wait till the end of your contract and upgrade then if you have to.
You new the deal when you signed up, dont cry about it now. Show some respect to the company you signed and agreement with and dont cry like a little spoilt rich kid.
just learn some patience and u can upgrade in time.

qiUip said on Fri, 12 Jun 2009

You are missing a HUGE difference between the 3G and the 3GS... It has much much better graphics, OpenGL ES 2.0, which the iPhone 3G can not. That means new game will come out for either only 3GS or have a lesser version for the 3G if they want to utilize the better graphics... I can't see how this will be resolved without getting most iPhone users to swap... or apple will have loads of problems in the app store in the near future.

qiUip said on Fri, 12 Jun 2009

You are missing a HUGE difference between the 3G and the 3GS... It has much much better graphics, OpenGL ES 2.0, which the iPhone 3G can not. That means new game will come out for either only 3GS or have a lesser version for the 3G if they want to utilize the better graphics... I can't see how this will be resolved without getting most iPhone users to swap... or apple will have loads of problems in the app store in the near future.

Tarks382 said on Fri, 12 Jun 2009

Twice I did the queues and the 5am banter. Both times, despite my excitement, I felt a bit of a git: "It's a phone" said my internal cynic, "get over it." But of course instead I just got it and now, as it's still shiny and looks like new, I've got no intention of getting whipped up into the hysteria again. OS3 and a stately upgrade in the fullness of time will do me. Not least at these astounding prices.

Tarks382 said on Fri, 12 Jun 2009

Twice I did the queues and the 5am banter. Both times, despite my excitement, I felt a bit of a git: "It's a phone" said my internal cynic, "get over it." But of course instead I just got it and now, as it's still shiny and looks like new, I've got no intention of getting whipped up into the hysteria again. OS3 and a stately upgrade in the fullness of time will do me. Not least at these astounding prices.

Tarks382 said on Fri, 12 Jun 2009

Oooops. Looks like twice I pressed the send button too.

MrDJ said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

I agree with the comments stating that they are going to wait for the 4th Gen iPhone next year. Apple/02's strategy this time round is certainly just to try and recruit brand new customers, not keep existing ones too keen.

Who wants to pay the remainder of their contract off (at least £200) plus the fee for the new phone just to get the 3GS that has a bit more space, a better camera and is a bit faster? In recessionary times, it just doesn't seem worth it.

Current customers are certainly locked in. I think i'll be waiting for the next version.

Milky Joe said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

You guys are all nuts. Is there any real alternative to the iphone? You have to ask yourself why Apple is preventing you buying an virgin unlocked iphone. Motorola or Nokia would be glad to sell you one at full price. The carriers buy in bulk and get a good discount then they get your contract. People say they won't go over their monthly "free" allowances but they always do by a few pence/quid from texts to friends abroad or calls to 0800/0845 numbers. That's where carriers seem to make the most cash.

Milky Joe said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

And another thing...
Why is it that carriers have the affront to exclude calls to 08 numbers from the inclusive minutes!

me said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

People who took out the 3G on a business contract get to upgrade after 12 months, so they'll be happy.
It's a credit crunch, and instead of people being happy with what they have (3G) their making a fuss and want something for nothing. At the end of the day, O2 are a business, and if it was your business, your not going to give expensive phones away for free to keep customers who are already in a contract. Go on orange for £30 a month, and see what standard of handset you get.

Also, people who think O2 are bumping people, their contracts are the same price for ANY phone you were to buy in there. Do you not think apple have sat down with them and agreed the prices of the phones and tariffs? It's a joint venture.
If you wanted to swap your mortgage mid way through your repayment period, you'd have to pay a fee. Same goes for a phone - which is much less important.

me said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

oh yeah, and, if you read your terms and conditions, the unlimited data and wifi were to use FROM THE HANDSET, so plugging it into your laptop and tethering isn't what you signed for.
Just buy a pay as you go modem if you want to use the internet so much, Its £30 from o2 and you top up as and when you need it.

so THERE.

Rob said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

Surely the original iPhone 3G upgrade was offered free in the UK due to the fact that the O2 hadn't done very well selling the original iPhone and rumors were that apple would break the exclusivity deal and maybe shift to Orange etc. O2 were not trying to be nice to customers but just keeping the business going (like any phone company). I don't think I'll bother with the 3GS and will wait for my contract to expire maybe shift to PAYG and wait for the next major development hopefully something that will run flash etc.

Rob said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

Surely the original iPhone 3G upgrade was offered free in the UK due to the fact that the O2 hadn't done very well selling the original iPhone and rumors were that apple would break the exclusivity deal and maybe shift to Orange etc. O2 were not trying to be nice to customers but just keeping the business going (like any phone company). I don't think I'll bother with the 3GS and will wait for my contract to expire maybe shift to PAYG and wait for the next major development hopefully something that will run flash etc.

dickydan said on Tue, 16 Jun 2009

you can only upgrade to the new i phone 3gs if your contract has finished just been on the phone to 02 and you cannot pay off your existing bill.

DamoBiddles said on Wed, 17 Jun 2009

Feeling let down and disappointed by Apple more than anything else. This has left a real sour taste

Lee said on Fri, 26 Jun 2009

well i know it wont make you O2 fans happier but i found out today 02 have ost the contract to the apple i phone and at the moment T-mobile look to be the leaders in selling them soon