Apple to expand iPhone sales to Best Buy?

According to sources of Apple Insider, Apple Inc. is preparing to expand their iPhone distribution to various prime retailers, well ahead of the holiday shopping season. As of yet, sales of the device have been exclusively through Apple and AT&T retail stores, as well as the Apple Online Store. However, Apple Insider's sources tell them that over the next 4 to 6 weeks, Apple is planning to offer their iPhone for sale at other specific high-profile retailers and AT&T partners.

The sources say that Apple plans to have expanded iPhone sales to their latest retail partner, Best Buy. All Best Buy locations will offer them as soon as October, but more likely September. They also say there is a possibility of the Apple iPhone displays similar to those in the Apple stores being set up in Best Buy windows.

Supposedly Apple's pilot program to test Mac sales at 7 Best Buy locations last year fostered a closer relationship with them. Members of the company's leadership confirmed plans to expand these pilots to 200 stores by the end of September, 300 total at years end.

Stores being included in the expansion are being equipped with isolated Apple display areas, featuring snazzy furnishings and a mini-theater display with stereo sound.

"Apple is a very strong focus for us [right now]," commented a source close to Best Buy's retail operations. "The displays are incredible and very popular -- they are very eye-catching to our customers."

They claim that the information comes to them from "people familiar with the the matter" at Best Buy, though they don't disclose anyone specifically.

el frijole visited one of these Best Buy stores, and was able to take a few very nice photographs of the functioning Apple displays. You can view them on his flickr account below:

[via Apple Insider]