Orange’s launch of iPhone 3G and 3GS ‘immensely exciting’

On November 10th, the iPhone 3G and 3GS will be available from Orange – and the network provider says there is "immense" excitement for the event from both customers and staff.

When store doors open at 07:00 GMT, people will be able to get their hands on one of the devices, which enables access to more than 85,000 applications, hands free voice control and integrated camera.

Chief executive officer of Orange UK Tom Alexander asserted there has been more than a quarter of a million customer enquiries about the phones since it was announced that they would be joining the company’s portfolio of products.

"We will be matching their enthusiasm with a 3G mobile broadband network that covers more people in the UK than any other operator, a commitment to deliver the best 3G experience on the iPhone and best-in-class applications and plans," he said.

The network provider promised that the handsets will be available on "great value" pay as you go and pay monthly price plans for both consumer and business customers.

However, there has been some criticism in the media that the packages available are too similar to those being offered by O2.

The Guardian’s technology blog compared the contract prices for the iPhone between Orange and O2 and noted that there was not a lot of difference.

It found that the largest saving consumers could make was 84 pence and asserted: "There’s nothing … between these two sets of contracts. They could not be closer."

Meanwhile, some believe that the handsets could become available on Vodafone next year, which could lead to more competitive contracts.