Apple takes buying an iPhone back online… partially

It’s not in-home activation, but it’s as close as you’re likely to get for the foreseeable future. Apple has updated their website to include an option to make it easier than ever to buy an iPhone 3G.

The process begins online at the new page and ends at an Apple Store. It’s a four step process.

1. Enter your billing information.
2. Review eligibility and pricing.
3. Select your AT&T rate plan.*

The fourth step isn’t numbered as such, but you’ll have to pick an Apple Retail Store and a time to finalize your purchase.

Like I said, this isn’t in-home activation. It’s actually the opposite. But anything that can speed along the process is good news to me. Now you won’t have to wait for your information to be processed in the store since you can do all of that ahead of time.

Product [iPhone]