AT&T and Apple announce service plans, iTunes activation for iPhone

Here we go again folks: this time it's a double-dose of PR announcements from Apple and AT&T that finally answer some of our biggest questions about service plans and activation for the iPhone. First up: the iPhone will work with any of AT&T's service plans, but they have put together three bundle plans that include unlimited data, Visual Voicemail (apparently not included if choosing a standard plan), 200 SMS and of course, roll-over minutes and unlimited mobile-to-mobile calling. To quote Mr. Jobs, who clearly must have had some influence on this 'give them a simple package' approach: "We want to make choosing a service plan simple and easy, so every plan includes unlimited data with direct Internet access, along with Visual Voicemail and a host of other goodies." Yes, Steve Jobs is quoted as saying 'goodies.' These bundle plans - which all include the aforementioned features like unlimited data - work like so:

• $59.99 for 450 minutes

• $79.99 for 900 minutes

• $99.99 for 1,350 minutes

Family plans are also available, though the press release makes no mention of what they are. Also, a $36 activation fee is required for all new plans.

Speaking of activation, the second press release should offer some relief to those worried about being able to unbox their own iPhone or waiting for every phone to get activated in the store. Apple and AT&T have announced that iPhones users will be able to "activate their new iPhones using Apple's popular iTunes(R) software running on a PC or Mac in the comfort and privacy of their own home or office." iTunes will guide users through choosing a service plan, authorizing their credit and activating the iPhone, after which they will of course be able to manage the synching process of all their bookmarks, contacts and iTunes media.

Considering unlimited data is included, these plans sound like pretty good deals. Top it all off with lines that should move pretty quickly in and out of Apple and AT&T stores, and we all might just make it through this weekend yet.