Vodafone has taken a step forward in the 3G market, confirming that its 8GB Iphone model will come at a price of $712 (Rs 31,000). The decision suggests Apple will now have to re-position its iconic Iphone.

Vodafone has released the pricing information to users who pre-registered with the telco a few weeks back. The operator has also announced the price of its 16GB model as $829 (Rs 36,100).

3G services are yet to commence in India, but Vodafone and Bharti Airtel are likely to start selling the Iphone from Friday. The company has yet to reveal further details on the price such as prices for unlocked Iphones, or for those with bundled plans that also offers limited usage with the handsets.

Assuming Vodafone’s recent price tag has been set for unlocked Iphones, the price is a little higher in India than in US, where similar models come in at $550. But if the price tag has been finalised for the bundled plans, then it’s definitely far more expensive than those in the US. The leading operator in US, AT&T, offers a similar 8GB handset bundled plan at only $199.

Bharti Airtel has not yet revealed its price, but is expected to go for something similar. It says the Iphone will available for sale at its Relationship centres from August 22.  Apple is not in the picture yet, but  could give a tough time to both these operators with a similar pricing.

Users wanting to confirm their booking have been advised by Vodafone to pay $230 (Rs 10,000) at Vodafone stores on August 20 and 21. Vodafone will alert buyers to collect the Iphone once it decides on a release date. X