I'm sure that some of you read this site looking for a glimmer of hope. Hope that we will cover a story that informs you whether or not you will be able to purchase an iPhone. You're hoping for this because you live somewhere in the US where Cingular has no coverage. This is that article.

Our own Vincent Nguyen has been at CTIA all week and was invited to a luncheon with some of the execs at AT&T. While there, someone asked the big question. Will those people that aren't covered by Cingular be allowed to sign up for service anyway, just to get the iPhone? The answer will disappoint you.

Even though in most areas that are not covered by Cingular service you can still get a roaming signal, you will not be allowed to sign up for Cingular service. No Cingular contract means no iPhone. Your only prayer might be that the Cingular exclusive with the iPhone won't last as long as we all suspect. But don't hold your breath.