UNLESS you've been living under a rock for the last month, you'd know about the technological revolution that's had people talking - the release of the Apple iPhone 3G.

Apart from Optus and Telstra revealing their price plans; all three telcos have remained quiet over many details, with the surprises being released on the launch date of July 11.

So how do you get your hands on one and what happens if you miss out on this round? Never fear - here's everything you need to know about getting a piece of the Apple iPhone 3G action.

Where do I get one?
Optus, Telstra and Vodafone are the only franchises stocking them (at this stage). Apple is yet to make an announcement, so stay tuned.

How do I get one?
You need to pre-register with either:
Optus
Telstra or
Vodafone

If you're desperately wanting one - then register with all three providers.

Alternatively, you can try your luck by joining the stampede at any of the franchises on July 11 and sign up for one on-the-spot.

OK, I've registered - what next?
The companies will send you a confirmation email letting you know your registration has been added to the list. Then it's really a case of waiting with bated breath.

Are there going to be enough iPhone 3Gs for everyone? What if I miss out?
It's all pretty hush-hush at the moment, but from the sounds of things - the companies are expecting mass crowds on the day of release.

How much will I have to pay for one?
All the telcos have developed price plans to suit any budget, but it's important to do your research and find the best one for you and your wallet.

Prices start from $279 for an outright payment for the 8GB model, with plans starting from $30 per month.

Optus post-paid price

Optus pre-paid

Telstra

Vodafone


Why should I buy one?
Why shouldn't you buy one? The iPhone 3G is described by Apple as a "phone, iPod, and Internet in one fast 3G device". In other words - it's the Swiss army knife of mobile devices.

Phone: Sure, it looks like an iPod Touch but the iPhone really is (first and foremost), a phone. With a simple flick of the finger, you can make phone calls to anyone, anywhere. You still have access to voicemail and SMS - complete with a keyboard that pops up on screen. No more continual keying in on the numeric keypad.

Mini computer: Yes, the iPhone 3G has it all. Access your email through your usual provider like Microsoft, Google, Yahoo! and AOL, or surf the world wide web with lightning fast speeds (as an added bonus - you can sync your bookmarks from your PC or Mac computer onto your iPhone, making life easier).

iPod and iTunes: Move and groove with multi-touch controls and enjoy widescreen video on the 3.5 inch screen. Heard something you like? Then access iTunes via the Wi-Fi Music store straight from your iPhone. No more plugging bits and pieces into your computer - it's a one-stop-shop-and-bop with the iPhone.

Camera and photo album: Like most mobile devices - there's a camera. With the iPhone, you have an easy-to-use camera that automatically syncs photos for your PC or Mac. It also has an awesome display album that's easy to access and you can post pictures directly from the phone to a mobile gallery or website.

GPS tracker: Combined with GPS, Wi-Fi and mobile tower technology, you'll be able to find your own location through the GPS system. You can even find points of interest by typing in keywords (like 'cafe'), and iPhone will show you every cafe close to your location.


Other stuff: Apart from all the other whizz-bang features, the iPhone also has:-
* YouTube access.
* Stocks, weather and notes.
* Full-featured scientific calculator.
                      * Calendar - which can also copy events from your computer's calendar.

With all this and probably much, much more - the iPhone 3G's release is truly bringing Christmas in July. While it will be easy to get caught in the whirlwind of excitement - be sure to shop around first and find the best deal for you.

Remember - this isn't a one-off. The iPhone is sure to be around for a very long time, so sit back, play and enjoy.

Want to know more?
Optus first off the rank with iPhone 3G prices