O2 have disappointed many Apple iPhone users with their policies for upgrading to Apple iPhone 3G S. The network provider has said that existing Apple iPhone customers need to pay up for their current contracts or wait till their contracts end, before they can get an upgrade. Last year, when the Apple iPhone 3G mobile phone was released, O2 had allowed existing iPhone customers to terminate their contracts and get the iPhone 3G for subsidised rates with an 18-month contract.

Now, Apple iPhone 3G users will have to pay an amount close to £500 to terminate their existing contracts and get the brand new iPhone 3GS.

However, O2 are saying that their upgradation policies are the same for all O2 devices. The company also states that they had offered the Apple iPhone 3G at subsidised prices when it was released. Simply invalidating contracts for upgrading to Apple iPhone 3G S will result in a financial loss for the Service Provider. Platinum members of O2 are eligible for a contract renewal 6 months before the expiry of their existing contracts; although such members have to pay an extra £80 per month for this kind of membership.

It is quite weird that a phone that gets a new makeover every year both hardware and software wise, is offered on 18-month contracts.

The iPhone 3.0 software that is featured in the new mobile phone is however download-able from today. O2 also stated that iPhone 3G S customers will be able to get an easy upgrade once the next iPhone comes into being.

The costs of the iPhone 3G S in the UK is cheaper than its selling price in the US. For a 2-year contract, the 16GB model will cost £87.11 for a £35 a month contract; while it will be free on the £45 and £75 a month contracts. The 32GB handset is priced at £175.19 for the £35 a month contract. It will cost £96.89 for the £45 a month contract and will be free for the £75 a month contract.

As of now, the new Apple iPhone 3G S will be available for sale from 19 June 2009. Those who own an Apple iPhone 3G, it seems to be wise to stick on to their existing contracts, while also downloading the iPhone 3.0 software. Unless you desperately need a faster processor, more memory, a compass, extended battery life, voice control and a 3MP camera with video recording. Maybe the initial Apple iPhone users and those who never owned an iPhone could give buying the new iPhone a second thought.

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