Use iPhone only as PDA???

Question

My current wireless service contract with another company expires July 20, and I would like to keep the same phone number for my cell. Can I pick up the new iPhone when the new version is released and use it solely as an iPod and also for contacts and iCal before activating my cell phone service July 21? Or can you only use all features of the iPhone after it's been activated on the ATT network?
Thanks

Answer 1

I would wait to purchase an iPhone when your contract with your existing provider expires, but don't cancel your service with your existing provider at that time. Your service will switch to a month to month basis, which can be cancelled at any time after your contract has expired.
The reason for this, the warranty period on an iPhone begins on the purchase date, not the activation date. Since none of the iPhone functions work until the iPhone is activated, there is no point in purchasing an iPhone until your existing contract expires, or just before.
When activating your iPhone with at&t via iTunes, you will select as a new subscriber with an option provided to port a number from another provider, or with a new phone number assigned by at&t. You will select the former, and at&t will handle the number porting process, which will cancel your service with your existing provider at that time. If you cancel your service with your existing provider prior to at&t porting your number, you won't be able to use this number with your iPhone.