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So we have officially learned the release date, however…

While still unconfirmed, some reports are beginning to trickle in that the iPhone 3G launch will be in a similar fashion as the original iPhone EDGE launch. Meaning that it will take place at 6PM local time.

I took the liberty of calling a handful of random Apple stores and found a mix of results. Some employees simply told me that it would be available on July 11 and followed up with a “that is all I can tell you.” Which honestly is the answer I was expecting, however I also got some, “we have not been told yet” answers and well as some who were telling me “for sure” that is how it would be and some that suggested it, but also were quick to tell me that it was just a guess on their part.

So, given the past history, both with the iPhone and also with some other software releases its safe to assume that the iPhone will have a more specific time than just when the stores open on July 11, however whether or not it will be 6PM remains unconfirmed at this time.

The one part that has some concern coming from me, is the expected in-store activation, assuming lines even half as long as the last time, this could factor a lot into how early people will begin lining up. Those first few spots are going to prove to be very valuable, not in a financial sense, but more important in terms of how many hours you may have to wait once they begin selling.