Hit for 6: iPhone 6 pre-order demand crashes networks
The UK's phone networks -- and even Apple itself -- have struggled under the demand for pre-orders of the new iPhone 6 and 6 Plus.
Can't wait to get your hands on the new iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus ? As of today you can get your name down for Apple's newest phone -- if the shops can get their act together to take your money.
Pre-orders opened today for the new larger iPhones ahead of the official launch next Friday, 19 September, which is when your phone should be delivered. You can order today directly from Apple, from pretty much all the UK networks, or phone shops Carphone Warehouse and Phones 4U. Most of the network's are struggling however, while in the US even Apple itself was plagued by problems.
At the time of writing, Vodafone's is the only network with a working pre-order page. O2's online shop is down under the demand for the new phone, while EE's entire website is offline. EE has yet to confirm whether that's a result of increased traffic from customers interested in buying the iPhone from the network with the widest 4G coverage.
Meanwhile Three will open pre-orders this afternoon. Virgin Mobile is also selling the new phones, but pre-orders aren't open yet and no expected time has been given.
With websites for several of the networks struggling under the demand, it's hard to compare the contracts and deals on offer. As an example, Vodafone's iPhone 6 deals start at £26 per month for a two-year 3G contract, which involves paying £249 for the phone up front. All 4G cost at least £40 and come with Netflix, Spotify or Sky Sports subscriptions.
O2's deals include, for the first time, an option with 20GB of data for £48 per month and £50 up front, which also includes free cinema tickets and Debenhams vouchers.
For an unlocked and SIM-free iPhone from Apple, without a phone contract, the iPhone 6 starts at £540 for the 16GB model. It's £620 for the 64GB version, or £700 for the largest 128GB model.
The larger 5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus starts at £620 for 16GB of storage or £700 for 64GB of memory, while 128GB of storage will set you back an eye-watering £790.