While iPhone controversy ballooned in Canada, the frenzy grew in other countries. Naturally, Apple does not mandate the price of its phones, thus there's a vast disparity in the cost of both the handset and oft-contentious accompanying data plans. Rogers Wireless fails to offer an unlimited plan while its American counterpart, AT&T has relatively affordable rates that require far less contractual commitment and internet and voice usage, including an unlimited choice. Across the globe, plans vary hugely with certain countries throwing in free 3Gs for signing a contract and others only requiring a nominal fee that's comparable to other smart phone plans.

Though lines stretched through high streets and outside of malls in most markets, Reuters reported a less than compelling performance in Helsinki, where only a handful of customers line up. Regardless of a handful of underperforming areas, early reports suggest a hugely successful launch. The original 2G moved well over 6 million units and, as the fervour continues, the 3G is expected to eclipse that mark in the coming months. Now available in 22 countries, availability will eventually expand to an additional 49 (don't worry, Nicaragua and Hungary, your time is coming). -S.T.