First iPhone 4S smartphones go on sale in Japan, sales scheduled in United States

Sales of the new iPhone 4S touch-screen smartphones have started in Japan. People have been crowding up to buy these gadgets since Tuesday, while others simply walk in and buy them by prior arrangement.

Several dozen people wishing to buy iPhone 4S smartphones lined up on New York City’s Fifth Avenue 24 hours before the sales were scheduled to commence. On October 4, the first three customers set up camp near the most famous specialized store in the United States.

At first glance, the line in front of the Tokyo-based Apple Inc. sales office was not very impressive, stretching for about 100 meters at 7:00 a.m.

A closer look showed that the strange-looking crowd with blankets and folding chairs on the other side of the crosswalk was an extension of the line stretching for three blocks.

Apple stores, as well as the main offices of KDDI and SoftBank cell-phone operators, opened at 8:00 a.m. or two hours earlier than usual. All the Apple store attendants formed a circle behind glass doors five minutes before the opening. They applauded and shouted “Apple Shibuya” and “iPhone Shibuya.”

The sound of wild applause as salespersons cheered the first buyer could be heard on the street. Photo: One of the first iPhone 4S buyers.

The first 20 customers waiting to buy smartphones in New York City are basically those who purchase all new gadgets featuring the famous Apple Inc. logo design. These people have brought survival kits, including tents, hats and raincoats with them.

Many people have been waiting in line for over eight days.