Rumours fly over iPhone release

The iPhone frenzy continues.

With rumours about the pricing of next month’s 3G iPhone release spreading like wildfire across the internet, Vodafone and Optus are working overtime to stop the spread of incorrect pricing information.

Meanwhile, Telstra has threatened legal action against Optus if it distributes any misleading information about the iPhone’s compatibility with Telstra’s 3G network.

Australians eager for the device have been left confused, as Optus and Vodafone are still not revealing contract details while still taking orders for the phone. Meanwhile, 3 and Telstra are still silent on whether they will stock the gadget at all, causing a number of frustrated users to take their complaints to the internet.

Users on overclockers.com.au, Australian’s busiest technology-based forum, say they’re aggravated Optus is charging up to $100 for pre-ordering the iPhone while refusing to say whether the device will even be sold outside of a contract plan. Some forum members say they will not order the phone until Vodafone or Optus can prove they will sell it cheaper than any other carrier.

“I can’t think of the release of anything… in the last few years that has had so many untruths and the same level of speculation around it,” a forum user says.

More alleged details of Optus pricing were released on technology site gizmodo.com.au, but were hastily told by Optus the pricing was incorrect. However, a report from iphoneunlockaustralia.com says Optus plans to sell the phone for $350 outright. Optus spokesperson Melissa Favero, while unwilling to reveal any other details about the release, denies any leak has occurred saying, “It’s incorrect – Optus has not released its pricing.”

Telstra has threatened Optus with legal action if it makes any misleading statements regarding iPhone. A letter was sent to Optus regarding comments made by Optus boss Paul O’Sullivan, who says up to 96% of the population this year will be able to access services on 3G networks.

Telstra spokesman Peter Taylor says: “It’s important that consumers understand when they are choosing their mobiles that some of these new phones simply won’t work properly on other frequencies.”

Apple Australia also refused to comment on any release of details for selling the iPhone outright, and refused to even comment on whether the company was pleased by the public’s response following the phone’s announcement.

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