Unconfirmed: iPhone 3G To Go On Sale At 6PM On Launch Day

Several readers who called various Apple Stores were told that the iPhone 3G will go on sale at 6PM on its scheduled launch date of July 11th. As with last year's iPhone launch, this applies to both AT&T and Apple Stores throughout the country and will be relative to each store's respective time zone. Stores will close prior to the launch to prepare. Because iPhone 3Gs will likely require in-store activation, physical Apple and AT&T stores will be the only way to purchase the next generation phone.

Last year, Apple launched the iPhone at 6PM on June 29th at Apple and AT&T retail stores, as well as its online store. Although massive lines formed hours and even days ahead of June 29th, Apple and AT&T managed to move the large crowds through the purchase process with little to no difficulty. The requirement of in-store activation will likely slow the process to a crawl, almost invariably requiring first-day buyers to wait at length to purchase the device.