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Activation Process Memo Leaked From Rogers Wireless?

Submitted by Edward Kirk on June 28, 2008 - 3:41pm.
in

iPhoneinCanada.ca has posted what they claim is a leaked Rogers Wireless internal memo explaining the Rogers iPhone 3G activation process, which they say they received from an anonymous user. The memo mentions that iPhones will be arriving to stores in a "bricked" state, and that a special "activation only" version of iTunes 7.7 will be required to activate the device and un-brick it.

To ensure customers can leave with a fully functional iPhone, it must be first be "unbricked". This process involves using the tether (a USB cable: see below) to connect/sync the iPhone to a unique 'Activation Only' version of iTunes via a computer. More information about the unbricking process will be provided in training (found on Fast Track and Sales Central) and you will be informed when the job aid is available.

The memo also says that the full version of iTunes 7.7 will be available to the public on July 11th, and that this version will also contain the special "activation only" mode.

[iPhone in Canada via MacRumors]

Submitted by X3cution3R on June 28, 2008 - 5:26pm.
does this mean activation will be done in home then?

Submitted by imagine engine on June 28, 2008 - 7:46pm.
Quote:
Originally Posted by X3cution3R View Post
does this mean activation will be done in home then?
No, it would still mean activation of the iPhone is being completed in store at the point of activation or when the customer is completing a hardware upgrade to the iPhone. Apple has stopped the option of being able to activate at home due to lost sales caused by unlocking. Also keep in mind this is not a standard upgrade as the customer will need to change their existing voice/data plan to one of the iPhone 3G Voice & Data plans on a 3 year term to get the subsidized pricing.

Submitted by Peter000 on June 29, 2008 - 1:29am.
I'll believe the in-store activation requirement, especially at Apple Stores, when I see it.

The first iPhone I got on launch day last year was registered at an ATT store. But not activated. Something similar to that is probably happening.

Submitted by Parrothedd on June 29, 2008 - 8:07am.
I have to agree with Peter000. I'm guessing that customers will be able to take their new phones home and activate (especially if there is a line in the store, or if they want to) BUT only after they have signed on the line for a 2 year contract with AT&T. This may even involve a separate SIM process in store where they give you the new SIM card and you install it yourself at home. This would make sense because a.) there is a SIM removal tool included in the box and b.) it would make it a lot easier for manufacturing and inventory management if Apple didn't have to worry about carrier logo'd SIM cards inside the phones.

JT

Submitted by Kevin Dunahee on June 29, 2008 - 11:21pm.
I love how the words "bricked" and "unbricked" have become official terminology.

Submitted by Krispykrink (not verified) on June 30, 2008 - 2:53pm.
I'm inclined to believe Peter000 and Parrothead.

Getting an iPhone 3G may involve these steps:

1. Go into an AT&T or Apple store.
2. Get processed and approved for a new contract and pay for the iPhone via Credit Card.
3. Receive a printout with a pre-approval code linked to your account and new SIM card.
4. Go home, unbox and iTunes activate.
4a. AT&T/Apple can activate it in-store for those that wish to have them do it on the spot.
5. Charged the remaining cost of the full price ($400? $500?) of the iPhone if you fail to complete step #4 in a certain time period.

I think it may go down this way for a few reasons. Many an Apple fan relish in the "unboxing" ritual. Seriously, many people would be very put off if they were forced to allow some AT&T monkey to open it up and put their hands all over it before they could take it home and do the unboxing.

Also, Apple's including the SIM removal tool, aka a paper clip. I doubt it's there for removing your old SIM from the current iPhone. The iPhone 3G will probably ship with no SIM and you'll receive it in-store after giving your John Hancock.