Long lines mark debut of Apple’s 14th Street store
The opening of the Apple’s new 14th Street store on Friday was marked by long lines and some disappointments, accounts suggest. The lineup began at 2 AM, and by 4 PM had grown to an estimated 750 people, fueled at first by radio DJ suggestions of free giveaways, and then by official word that shoppers would get a t-shirt and poster with the chance to win iTunes cards, iPods (Shuffles or Touches), or a MacBook. At least one customer who thought an iPod was guaranteed left the line early.
The line was described by some as “less civilized” than a similar store opening in San Francisco, and another commentator suggests that as much as half of the line consisted of people who had cut in, with no interference by New York City police or paid security. An iPod billboard ad came down shortly before 6 PM to read “Now Open,” but some visitors were not able to enter until after 9:30, by which point there were no t-shirts left, and only $10 iTunes cards were being handed out as prizes.
Apple staff provided a DJ for several hours, but those hoping to rely on the store’s Wi-Fi access for entertainment found that it was quickly overwhelmed by the number of users.
source: macnn.com