Apple's popular iPhone 3G will launch in South Africa on Friday, two days earlier than previously thought.

Earlier estimates had placed the launch of the eagerly awaited 3G-capable phone on 28 September — a Sunday — but according to an email sent to pre-registered interested buyers on Thursday, that has now been moved forward to tomorrow (Friday, 26 September).

A link from the email takes you to the Apple South Africa page, where launch details are still cloaked in secrecy — the only information being divulged being that of a link to where to find the nearest Vodacom retailer.

A Cellucity spokesperson, however, confirmed that the iPhone 3G will indeed be available at all branches, which will be open from 6am to midnight on Friday.

On the prepaid option, the 8GB version will retail for R7999 and the 16GB version for R9799. The Cellucity spokesperson could not yet confirm the contract options, as they are still awaiting confirmation on whether a pay-in will be required or whether it will be worked into the monthly contract fee.

Retailers have been phoning potential buyers who pre-registered on Vodacom's site this week to fill out pre-booking forms. If you've not yet pre-booked, contact your nearest Cellucity or Vodacom branch.