While consumers hoping to pre-order their new iPhone 4 on its first day of availability encountered technical problems with Apple and AT&T websites – and even at Apple’s stores! – gadget enthusiasts today have one more way to satisfy their Apple jones. Fittingly, it is best accessed via an iPhone.
The free Apple Store iPhone app offers the same options and conveniences as Apple.com – at least when the site is working. In fact, while I unsuccessfully tried for several hours to get an iPhone 4 shipped to my home address on Apple.com, I was able to secure a reservation to pick up my new device at the closest Apple Store near me in a matter of a few clicks.
While I’ll still have to deal with lines and sorting out the best AT&T plan on-site, the fast and easy experience of the Apple Store app will keep me coming back.
More from the store
As is the case with many online media experiences configured to an iPhone app, tapping through the Apple Store is an easier and more pleasurable experience than surfing through Apple.com. Top selling products including iPhones, iPads, MacBooks and associated software and accessories are simply and elegantly listed within the app. While the app contains everything I would ever want to purchase from the Apple.com, its design is less busy and more quickly points me to where I want to go.
A geo-locating tool identifies the closest stores in my area (Michigan Avenue in Chicago)- rendering apps like the paid Apple: Find Your Nearest Stores title obsolete. One can also find stores in other locations and search for Apple products not featured on the app’s front screen.
Product and technical information is explained by a list of Frequently Asked Questions found on the Help tab. Calling Apple for more information is also just a tap away. Now if only they can move up my registration and put the device in my hands before June 24!
