Pre-orders open for latest iPhone buyers

Models show notice that SK Telecom will accept pre-orders for iPhone 6s between Oct. 19 and Oct. 22. [SK TELECOM]

The nation’s three largest telecom carriers will begin accepting pre-orders for the new Apple iPhone 6s and 6s Plus on Monday.

The three largest carriers - SK Telecom, KT and LG U+ - will accept pre-orders of the new iPhones both on and offline until Thursday on websites and at authorized retailers.

The carriers initially planned to launch the new iPhone pre-order sessions last Friday morning.

However, insiders say the date was delayed as Apple and the telecom carriers were unable to reach agreement on the level of device subsidy.

The Korea Communications Commission recommended they begin receiving orders at the beginning of a business week, instead of a Friday, to curb competition.

Ahead the pre-order period, carriers have been gearing up with different marketing strategies to tempt customers.

SK Telecom promised the iPhones will be ready for use on Friday morning for customers who complete orders in the first session, and ready on Saturday morning for customers who make orders during the second and third sessions.

For customers who complete orders in the first and second sessions, the carrier will issue a gift voucher worth 20,000 won ($17.68) for a screen protection cover or device cover.

KT will allow some 10,000 existing KT customers to make pre-orders via text messages. It will also allow existing customers to use Olleh membership points worth up to 50,000 won as a discount towards the new iPhone.

LG U+ is also offering a gift voucher worth 20,000 won to some 50,000 customers who make pre-orders and have the phone registered by Oct. 31.

BY KIM JI-YOON [kim.jiyoon@joongang.co.kr]