Can't buy iPhone in US from Apple Store!

ok, so, this, first of all, not "cheap upgrade" issue. let me set full story.

first of all, i'm *very* long term at&t wireless customer - since '97, when pac bell wireless. i've never particularly liked 'em, i've never directly butted heads them , figured nobody else better.

secondly, bought original iphone on launch day. i'm upgrading 3g wireless - use internet on phone, lot. however, no wifi access, , have at&t data card macbook pro , lug both of places high-speed access.

anyway, (sunday) morning, figured few people want @ 0800 grab iphone. since kids risers (not naturaly , wasn't of hardship drive palo alto store. got there 0830, , happy see dozen people in line outside of it.

unfortunately, turned out not many apple store employees wanted early, either, , short-staffed. after waiting little bit more hour, let in , introduced handler. told him had no discounts on at&t plan, wasn't business account, etc. grabbed black 16gb phone back, asked me last 4 of social, phone number, , zip code. punched handheld, , had me sign it.

when clicked whatever "next" button on was, though, said "unable upgrade account."

became clear on next forty-five minutes (!) had no clue doing, managed figure out how call at&t wireless, store password was, etc., , got on phone said fine account , there nothing do. tried run again, phone, , didn't work.

asked speak manager, told me that, no, unable under circumstances sell me iphone without getting past screen on handheld computer, understood trying give him hundreds of dollars , couldn't accept it. said @ least 1 other person had had same problem, , didn't know going on or how fix it. suggested go at&t store. having spent 3 hours (including drive time) not getting iphone, decided put off day.

understanding saying not there problem "upgrade" pricing, tried "upgrade" (*cough* downgrade *cough) account new minutes/sms plan , failed reason.

has else had experience or know resolution is? fear i'm in kafkaesque state can't new iphone because i'm existing customer , yet can't sign totally new account , iphone because i'm existing customer. suggestions? guess best bet right go order 1 at&t store , hope they're able "upgrade" account when comes in...

-tq

 

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