I updated my iTunes today and saw the new App Store — and was ready to write a post saying how cool it could become as it grows. Then I heard about the iPhone 3G launch. Ouch! I guess heads are rolling in Cupertino tonight.
Here’s a summary of some coverge:
C|NET: iPhone glitches derail Apple’s launch event magic
Apple’s singular ability to whip up consumer frenzy might be in trouble after the debacle that was Friday’s iPhone 3G launch.
Server problems turned this year’s iPhone 3G launch into an exercise in patience for Apple fans and employees, as eager buyers faced waits of up to two hours to get their iPhone 3Gs activated in Apple stores, and many left with iPhone 3Gs in hand but the activation process incomplete. The same problems affected original iPhone owners trying to install the iPhone 2.0 software, turning their handsets into “iBricks.”
SciFi.com’s DVICE Blog: Apple’s disastrous iPhone 3G launch, and why it matters
It is impossible to calculate the long-term damage the monumental f-ups of Friday’s iPhone 3G inauguration – the inability of AT&T and Apple’s systems to sync up to upgrade and activate current customers, of turning original iPhones into iSlabs when installing iPhone 2.0, of iTunes playing hooky when millions tried to sync their new iPhones 3G – will have on Apple. In a day, the most spotless and sterling reputation in high-tech, years in expert caressing and molding, gone like a rainbow at sunset.
Wired: Network Glitches, Delays Mar iPhone 3G’s Debut
In reality, the glitches plaguing the launch of Apple’s iPhone 3G were not earthshattering. AT&T’s servers were unreachable for about 30-40 minutes immediately after the iPhone 3G went on sale on the West Coast, meaning the very first customers (such as Larson) had difficulty even beginning the in-store activation process. After that, the deluge of traffic to Apple’s servers prevented most customers from completing the second step of the activation process. But phones are available, and customers are able to buy them.
Gizmodo: Apple Cancels All iPhone 3G Orders, Releases iBrick 3G
In a surprising move that is set to stun consumers all over the world, Apple has cancelled all orders for the iPhone 3G today. People who already bought the phones will get them replaced by Apple’s new wonderproduct, the iBrick 3G.
