After reports of its huge popularity, AT&T have decided to bump up the price of their iPhone 3GS to 99 cents, reports Electronista. The move is somewhat unusual, but it is presumably to curb the demand of the incredibly popular phone. Ralph de Vega, AT&T’s wireless chief, has warned of possible shortages due to the demand.
In a statement, AT&T said they remained confident that the demand would remain the same:
“iPhone 3GS is still available at an incredibly low price and we’re confident consumers will agree that this remains one of the best deals for a leading smartphone”
AT&T is the only US carrier to sell the 3GS due to its GSM-only nature, so there should be any worries about competition. The idea that a once free phone is now 99 cents might dissuade some, but I agree with AT&T that it should remain popular, especially as the price difference between the next model up, the iPhone 4, is considerable.