Wait times for iPhone deliveries from the UK Apple Store have dropped from three weeks to "one to two," depending on the model purchases, according to a check of the Apple UK web site. iPhone 3GS models (£419) ship in "one to two" weeks while iPhone 4 (£499/599) has dropped from three weeks delay to within two.
The UK iPhones ship factory unlocked without SIM cards, meaning buyers can choose carriers and plans after purchase, including prepaid options. Apple presently lists five UK carriers for the iPhone, including 3, O2, Orange, T-Mobile and Vodaphone -- all of whom subsidize the cost of the iPhone if buyers get the phone and a contract with them.
Apple's online stores not ship iPhones internationally. The white iPhone continues to be listed as "unavailable for order."
