iPhone sold online by Softbank

The iPhone is now listed on the Softbank online shop. Launch date: August 19.

Here’s the direct link. As you can see, the prices with the new plans have been detailed, the iPhone payments being slightly more expensive now than when launched on July 11.

 

(please note that I will take some time off, see you in two weeks).

Simplify Media: first 100,000 downloads are free

Before I go on on setting-up the iPhone in Japan tips, here’s a quick download for all you music fans:

Simply Media has released their self titled application into the App Store.Simplify Media [App Store] lets you listen to your iTunes music library from anywhere.

It allows you to stream your music library directly on your iPhone from your Mac or PC. Check it out. The first 100,000 downloads are free.

Getting an iPhone 3G in Japan

TO READ THE FULL POST, PLEASE GO TO THE NEW HOME: www.mobileinjapan.com

Getting an iPhone on July 11 was possible only if you were willing to queue for hours.

As time passes, however, it gets easier to find both the 8GB and 16GB version.

One thing to remember: the Apple Store in Ginza and the online store do not sell iPhones !

Where to buy an iPhone?

I got mine at Softbank in Omotesando, their flagship store, since they offer english-speaking services. It’s on the Omotesando street. You can either drop at the Harakuju station (JR Line) or Meiji-jingumae station (Tokyo Metro)

In Tokyo, you canalso go to the Softbank Shibuya store, the Roppongi store or at the Narita airport mini-store. Just go there to check the closest to your place.

Some people have had no problem registering in English at either Bic Camera (english list of stores) or Yodobashi Camera. Some smaller shops have their iPhones and since most clerks are always very helpful, you can try your luck there (just don’t expect english-speaking clerks everywhere).

At the time of this writing, still expect some queues in some shops.

What to bring with you ?

First of all, you must be a resident in Japan to get your iPhone. There’s no prepaid option for it.

Since Softbank seem to alter their policies every two days, play it on the safe side, bring:

TO READ THE FULL POST, PLEASE GO TO THE NEW HOME: www.mobileinjapan.com

iPhone in Japan ?

iPhone in Japan ?

As I was leaving my country to come live in Tokyo, it was just announced that the iPhone 3G would arrive in stores on July 11. What a relief.

What I didn’t expect, were the difficulties of getting my hands on it and overcoming some limitations due to both Apple and Softbank, the official carrier in Japan.

So, here I am, sharing these experiences with you in order to help anyone interested.

Ganbatte !