Apple Telling Customers To Expect iPhone 4 A Day Early, June 23

So this is a little weird. iPhone 4 launch day is this Thursday, June 24. You know it, I know it, presumably, FedEx knows it. And of course, Apple knows it. And yet, they’re still telling customers that their new iPhones will be delivered on June 23.

It’s not unusual for FedEx to show screwy delivery dates in the online tracking information when a company (like Apple) has a hold on a product’s delivery until a certain date.  FedEx’s systems often simply reflect how much time it would normally take to deliver the product. But what’s odd here is that Apple is emailing customers telling them to be sure they’re around on the 23rd to accept their new iPhones.

And that’s not all. They also acknowledge that the tracking information may have a “later date,” but still say the 23rd will be the day.

We’ve gotten about four of these tips so far — all of whom received the email below. Twitter is also abuzz with these confirmations.

So could it be that FedEx will actually deliver the iPhone 4 a day early to those who pre-ordered it? I wouldn’t hold my breath, but who knows, even if Apple puts out the word at the last minute not to deliver these until the 24th, maybe some of the FedEx offices will screw up and deliver early.

Dear Apple Store Customer,

You recently received a Shipment Notification email from Apple advising you that your iPhone has shipped.

This email is to confirm that your delivery will occur on June 23rd. Although Apple and FedEx tracking information may currently indicate a later date, you can check the FedEx website the morning of the June 23rd to track your package to your doorstep.

In the event that you will not be available to accept delivery on June 23rd, it may be more convenient to use our pre-sign delivery option by visiting our Order Status website at http://www.apple.com/orderstatus.

Sincerely,

The Apple Store Team

Update: And some are actually seeing it arrive today, June 22, a full two days early!