Apple, Carriers Start Taking Orders for iPhone 5c

Those wanting one of Apple’s colorful new iPhone 5cs can place their orders in just a couple hours’ time.

Apple will start taking orders at midnight PT, as will the major U.S. carriers. Apple’s online store is down ahead of the move, while AT&T is offering a countdown on its whole site, making it challenging to do much of anything besides wait to order Cupertino’s latest.

Although Apple and its partners are taking preorders for the iPhone 5c, there are no preorders for the higher-end iPhone 5s. Both models are slated to hit store shelves next Friday.

Meanwhile, the carriers are doing their best to tout their various advantages. T-Mobile — enjoying its first iPhone launch — is pushing its “un-carrier” approach and low down-payment options, while Sprint is noting its totally unlimited option.

“We are very excited to bring the innovation of iPhone 5S and the fun features of iPhone 5C to our customers paired with the benefit of Sprint’s Unlimited 4G LTE plans,” Sprint VP David Owens said in a statement.

AT&T, Sprint and Verizon are selling the 16 gigagbyte iPhone 5c for $99 with a new two-year contract. T-Mobile, which is no longer subsidizing phones, is offering an introductory price on the iPhone 5c of no money down and $22 per month for 24 months.