You can't fault Apple for clever marketing. They brought out a phone in 2007 that had major features missing and an awful camera, yet people were desperate to get one and pay full price with a contract.
Personally, I bought the 3G as it does everything I want and does it well.
It cost me less at £342 than my previous HTC Touch Diamond at £392 (sim-free).
iPod's and iPhones aren't the best devices out there but they are desirable because of hype and marketing. I don't see anything intrinsically wrong with that, it's how these businesses make money.
As for exclusivity that's another clever marketing ploy which is used widely (remember the "reassuringly expensive" Stella Artois ads?)
With regard to pricing, Apple are in the business to make money. If the prices don't appeal, then don't buy. There are plenty of people out there who will. Apple have created and "plugged" a product so widely and successfully that they won't go short of customers.
SV
http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-phone- ... sku3190234
