Getting an iPhone, but not an iTunes Store Fan? Better Rethink That …

By Michael Santo
Executive Editor, RealTechNews

In case you were (for whatever reason) planning on using the iPhone, but didn’t want to create an iTunes Store account … you need to rethink that strategy. Information that Apple has sent to prospective buyers indicates that you will need an iTunes Store account to complete the setup of the phone.

Apple and AT&T have sent out a mass email with recommended preparation steps for the iPhone. The subject of the announcement reads “Get Ready. iPhone is coming June 29,” while the body lists suggestions for both PC and Mac users on how to get ready for the iPhone. These tips are broken down by sections, “Contacts,” “Calendar,” “Email,” “Photos,” “Music and Video,” and “iTunes Account.” Each section includes a brief description on how it works on the iPhone, and then an explanation of how customers can prepare. Of particular interest, the “iTunes Account” section reveals that an iTunes account will be required to set up the iPhone. Keep reading to see a summary of Apple’s suggestions. Source: iLounge

We Say: Some have theorized that the iTunes Store account may be used to add an additional layer of locking for iPhones. This is a possibility, but more likely it’s just a way to be sure the user is ready and able to buy when he wants to. On the other hand, this requirement may not be known by all AT&T store salespeople, so some people may have problems with initial setup (especially if they tend to not read any manuals, as I do).