I finally figured out why the 3G costs $130 more

[drjsway]

Keep in mind that while the hardware costs $24, there are a couple hundred patents on the chip and the patentholders expect to be paid a fee for every single one of them. The exact amount is a secret and varies from company to company (see Apple-Nokia battle) but generally rumored to be just south of a hundred.

EVERYONE PLEASE READ. This has been mentioned in EVERY thread on 3G. This discussion needs to end.

 

[leomac08]

Apple's deal with at&t w/ iPad 3G services proves that the iphone will stay another year till summer 2011 w/ at&t.

 

[Katilea]

3G or not 3G?

Does anyone know what 3G version be like for UK? Would I have to pay a monthly amount to get 3G whether I needed to use 3G or not?

Or would only pay to connect via 3G if you had to use it, cos no wi-fi spots available or in an emergency away from your home? (I'm thinking of setting up a texting via email account up for it)

I'm mainly housebound but thought it be worth paying for it incase I ever needed to send an emergency SMS outside home, but it depends on whether I'd be able to only pay if and when I used or or have to sign up to a monthly contract regardless of whether I connect via 3G or not?

Thanks