From all the news you will be able to go into the Apple store and buy the iPhone and take it home. Then activate it using iTunes. So if you do not have an iTunes account I would recommend setting it up now. I am sure Apple’s iTunes servers will be slammed shortly after 6pm Friday as they have been with other promotions and events. As I recall Christmas last year almost shut down iTunes.

Per the site you will need the following for activation: iTunes account, major credit card, and a valid Social Securlty number(as required by AT&T).