iPhone 3GS deliveries held

UPS is artificially delaying the delivery of iPhone 3GS shipments, multiple sources say. Although the first shipments technically began on Monday, UPS is reportedly telling customers that phones are being held "for a future delivery date." While a MacNN source has been told shipments are merely awaiting customs clearance, other sources have been informed that Apple has specifically requested holds without explanation.

Some shipments may in fact be deep into the US already, at least as far as Kentucky. The hold is likely to have been issued to prevent phones from arriving as soon as the 17th or 18th, rather than the official June 19th launch date. Early arrivals would defuse parts of Apple's intended PR strategy, and also potentially create problems with carriers, which may not be ready to support or charge for the 3GS.

by MacNN Staff