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Apple updates iPhone 3G launch info as unboxing photos appear

Apple has issued emails and updated its iPhone pages with new information regarding iPhone 3G launch day procedures. Meanwhile, the first sets of unboxing photos are appearing on the Web now that demo units have started to arrive at retail stores around the world.

All Apple Stores opening at 8:00 a.m.

"Apple Retail Stores will open early this Friday to help you get set up and get going with your new iPhone 3G," the company said in an email to US customers this morning. The same message confirmed that Apple Specialists will be on hand to offer a "Personal Setup" that will help you choose your phone model, select a rate plan, and prep your new handset so that it's "ready to make calls, browse the web, and receive email right on the spot."

What you'll need

Separately, Apple updated its iPhone websites with information on How to Get Ready for the new iPhone 3G and What To Bring to Apple (or AT&T) retail stores when you're ready to purchase. Much of the information on these pages echoes information published (1, 2, 3) by AppleInsider in recent days.

For instance, Apple says that in order to purchase iPhone 3G, you will need to have a credit card, your social security number, a valid government-issued photo ID, and your current wireless account number and password or PIN (if you’re new to AT&T).

"Current and new iPhone users who now receive or will receive service under a corporate account and wish to purchase iPhone 3G need to contact AT&T directly," the company added. "Also, if you want your Phone to access your business email account, check with your IT manager first."

Official iPhone 3G accessories

A list of official Apple-made iPhone 3G accessories is now also available, and includes the iPhone 3G Dock, existing iPhone Bluetooth Headset, Apple USB Power Adapter, iPhone Bluetooth Travel Cable, Apple Dock Connector to USB Cable, iPhone 3G Universal Dock Adapter 3-Pack, and iPhone TTY Adapter.

First unboxing photos

Meanwhile, photos of the first iPhone 3G unboxing have appeared on the Portuguese-language iPhonePortugal website just as a set of in-store display photos hit the Swiss website Gadget O'Mac.

Given that the neither the iPhone nor its packaging have changed much compared to the original iPhone, the photos are not particularly revealing.

iPhone 3G unboxing
iPhone 3G unboxing