Consumers gagging for Apple's iPhone

Nearly a fifth of all US adults are interested in purchasing an iPhone

Apple's iPhone continues to generate a buzz among consumers, despite its launch being at least six weeks away. 

A recent study by Harris Interactive suggests that nearly a fifth of all US adults are interested in purchasing an iPhone, but most will wait until pricing and availability improve.

The study found that 47 per cent of respondents over the age of 18 had heard of the iPhone, and 17 per cent had an interest in purchasing one.

This amount of interest is quite unusual for a product whose public exposure has been limited to company demonstrations and displays in revolving glass cases, according to the research firm.  

"Apple's new iPhone has shaken the industry to its core," said Joseph Porus, vice president of Harris Interactive's technology practice. "Look for strong sales and a new cult to develop around iPhone."

The news was not all good for Apple, however. The study also found that the iPhone's $500-$600 price tag, and its exclusive deal with mobile provider Cingular, could drive away a majority of those who are interested in the device. 

Of those who said they would be interested in purchasing an iPhone, 40 per cent indicated that they plan to wait until the price drops. Research firm iSuppli estimates that this could happen by late 2007.  

In addition, 25 per cent of those interested in the device said that they would wait until their current mobile provider offers the iPhone.

Another 17 per cent said that they would wait for their current mobile contract to expire before purchasing an iPhone. Apple's current deal requires users to sign up for a two-year contract with Cingular.