For the most part, getting your hands on an iPhone 4 handset is something that will have to wait several weeks. Apple is pushing back new pre-orders at least until July. But for a few users, iPhone day may come sooner than planned.

Multiple users in the States have reported that Apple is planning to deliver their iPhones a day early. The company has been sending out emails to certain pre-order customers confirming that the handset will be arriving via FedEx on 23 June rather than the 24th. So those of you who rushed to Apple's site and pre-ordered ahead in time get to celebrate iPhone Day early. Perhaps a bit of a refund on the traditional "early adopter tax".

The move may also be a nice piece of PR savvy on Apple's part. The new Motorola Droid models are reportedly going to be unveiled on the 23rd and the handset will no doubt be looking to steal some headlines away from the iPhone launch.

When the iPhone4 pre-orders arrive users will no doubt take to social media sites and blogs to show off their iPhones, so while Droid may aim for the headlines, iPhone could undermine that with the numerous "first look" pieces that will no doubt surface.

So a nice bit of one-upmanship from Apple, and a nice reward for those who committed early to getting a new iPhone. The move could also be a much-needed publicity win for AT&T, should the rollout go smoothly. The company has recently taken a beating for its coverage and security shortcomings, with Droid carrier Verizon leading the way.

23 Jun 2010