BREAKING: Vodafone New Zealand Cancels iPhone 4 Launch Tomorrow? – [Updated x3: Not Canceled]

Posted on July 29th, 2010. Written by Arron.

iClarifed is reporting Vodafone New Zealand may have to cancel their iPhone 4 launch tomorrow due to a shipping error on the company’s part.

MacRumors reports:

According to local reports, Apple’s deal with Vodafone has been canceled in that country as all mentions of the device disappeared from the carrier’s site yesterday and no launch plans had been announced. We also received word that Vodafone has posted signs in its stores this morning stating that the launch will not be taking place today.

Update: We’ve heard that both Vodafone and JB Hi Fi are claiming that a “shipping error” is responsible for the cancellation of today’s launch in New Zealand.

Purchasing an unlocked iPhone 4 model at unsubsidized prices through Apple’s online store is currently the only available option to customers.

Apple is launching the iPhone 4 in 17 more countries tomorrow.

[Update] – Many users are now reporting this launch cancellation by Vodafone New Zealand is now confirmed.

[Update 2] – The company is now reportedly sending out e-mails to those who had pre-ordered.

[Update 3] – Mac Rumors claims that the New Zealand Herald reports the device did go on sale in the country at mid-day today.

With iPhone mobile provider Vodafone saying it would not launch as promised, backed up by retailers JB Hi-Fi and Magnum Mac who all told nzherald.co.nz that the device wouldn’t go on sale today, there was massive confusion over whether Apple fans could get their hands on the device at all.

But this changed late this morning with Vodafone announcing that it would be sold from midday at selected non-partner stores. Apple have since announced that it will be available for purchase on the apple.com/nz/ website this evening. Pricing starts at $1099 to buy the device outright, although Vodafone is offering subsidised on-account plans.

[@iClarified via @MacRumors]