This is just obnoxious. I own the hardware. I am not renting, leasing or otherwise using it without actually owning it.

If I want to buy the iPhone 3G, and then sit it on my shelf without activating it for 3 months that is my prerogative. I own the hardware. The very idea that they could levy penalties against me for not activating the phone with them is an insult and an affront.

I had been excited about the new features present in the iPhone 3G, but as it stands now I won't be buying one. Although I am not really effected by this newest attack on the customers right to choose, I don't think I can stomach supporting this type of behavior.

Maybe enough pressure in the market will convince AT&T and Apple, Inc. to rethink this decision. But somehow I doubt it.