How to get your hands on an iPhone 4S

With just one day until Apple launches the iPhone 4S, no doubt there are thousands of eager customers across the country thinking about how they can get their hands on the tech giant’s latest device.

Fortunately, it’s set to be a little easier this year. Australia is now one of the countries to receive the iPhone 4S alongside the United States – even several hours before – so stock shortages experienced during the launch of the 3GS and the iPhone 4 may not be as bad.

With Apple having prepared for the launch by releasing the latest version of iTunes and iOS 5, the major upgrade to the iPhone operating system, everything is set for the big launch tomorrow. But how are Australians going to actually buy an iPhone 4S?

There are a number of ways you’ll be able to get your hands on an iPhone 4S this Friday, but with plenty of pre-orders already made, it’s going to be tough.

The first method is to pre-order through the telcos. With pre-orders having been open for a couple of days now, slots are likely limited, but if you know what plan you want, and don’t mind waiting, then pre-ordering can be a good way to take the stress off the whole process.

Alternatively, you can buy an iPhone on the day through the telco websites. However, this is a frantic process that will require you having to be at your computer immediately as the iPhone goes on sale. Models sell out quick and you’re lucky to get your first choice.

You could also show up to actual telco stores. Telstra has already announced it will be opening stores at 8am on Friday for customers, while Vodafone and Optus are likely to hold similar openings as well.

The only issue with this is that each store has a limited amount of stock. If you miss out at one, you probably don’t have enough time to go and find another store that does have your model.

However, this is countered by the fact a number of smaller telco stores probably have a few models available. You may find you’ll want to call a few stores this afternoon to see which will have the models in stock tomorrow.

You can also visit JB Hi-Fi, which has said it will be offering the iPhone 4S this year, although details are scarce apart from the fact it will be available tomorrow. You could try calling individual stores to see which has stock, but judging by the iPad 2 release staff will be hesitant to say anything.

The last method is to try buying through the Apple Store itself. While you probably will be able to get your hands on a phone this way, you’re in for a long wait – even with pre-ordering.

Right now, the 16GB model is set at $799, the 32GB at $899 and the 64GB at $999, all unlocked. However, shipping is at one to two weeks, and by Friday morning that wait is likely to be even higher. Last year shoppers waited several weeks before receiving their phones.

How you get your hands on the iPhone 4S depends entirely on how much you need it straight away. Buying through a telco will get you a device quicker, and if you line up for several hours at an Apple store, you’re almost guaranteed one if you’re near the front of the queue.

Of course, you can always just wait a couple of months, walk into a store and buy it – but where’s the fun in that?

Meanwhile, users should prepare for the iPhone 4S by downloading the latest iTunes version. And for those users who aren’t buying an iPhone 4S, the new iOS 5 update is available now which introduces a suite of new features including lock-screen notifications, iCloud support and wireless syncing.