The iPhone line starts here

(Credit: CNET Networks)

Eight days! In only eight days (after this post) the iPhone will be released to the technology-loving public. The thing I'm most amazed about is the hype this thing is generating. I'm definitely excited and have been a supplier of hype myself in this very blog, but I wasn't prepared for the sheer volume of information and rumors surrounding a phone that hasn't even seen the light of day yet (unless you count those lucky Apple employees). The hype is reaching such a feverish pitch at this point that some Mac rumor sites, like the appropriately named MacRumors.com, are offering buying strategies to obtain an iPhone.

Both AT&T and Apple are preparing for possible logistical problems. AT&T has hired 2,000 temporary employees to help handle the launch and also put out a memo (via BoyGeniusReport.com) concerning crowd control (Read: stanchions) when the doors finally open. One AT&T store will be giving out wristbands at the 4:30 p.m. closing time to those who are interested in buying at 6:00 p.m....What's that? You haven't heard about the closing of stores? Both Apple and AT&T will be closing their doors on June 29 at 4:30 p.m. to get ready for the 6:00 p.m. launch. What employees will be doing behind those closed doors is anyone's guess (Tethering the phones to the display tables? Putting on white Apple-logo jumpsuits? Eating their last meals? Changing into iRiot gear?). Clearly they're expecting a big turnout and with all the hype the iPhone is getting, I think their launch expectations will be fulfilled.

What do you think? Is it going to be a mad rush to Apple and AT&T stores? Will people spend the night outside stores for a phone? Are you over it already? Let me know in the comments!