AT&T Braces for iPhone Onslaught

AT&T is taking extra steps to prepare for an expected onslaught of business due to the iPhone, including the hiring of about 2,000 temporary employees and enhancing security.

The buzz around the phone is still growing, and people close to AT&T say that even celebrities are being turned away from getting a phone early. There are special lists, but all on it must still pay full price.

The Wall Street Journal says that the carrier is also taking no chances with the device, wary of any fallout from unexpected glitches. About 200 testers have been moving about the country testing it across AT&T's network in a variety of situations.

Additionally, to create even more buzz, both Apple and AT&T will limit sales -- at least initially -- to its 1,800 company-owned stores and nearly 200 Apple stores. Furthermore, areas where iPod sales had traditionally been higher will receive more stock.

Data plans will be customized for the device, and may include unlimited web browsing, according to company officials. Although pricing has not been announced, current unlimited plans run $20 per month.

Regardless of whether or not the iPhone is a success, most have expressed concern over price. An IDC survey found only 1 in 10 were willing to pay full price for the phone, even though 6 in 10 were interested in it.

Another problem is the issue of those that have contracts with other carriers - meaning some may need to pay $200 plus the price of the iPhone to switch their accounts to Cingular, the only carrier to offer the device.