iPhone or iPod Touch as test device

Question

I'd like to get a device for testing iPhone apps that I can wipe at anytime. A 1stG iPhone or iPod Touch is ideal. With an iPod touch, I'll pay for OS upgrades. However, on eBay, iPhones are going for $300+. Used iPod Touches are about $150-$200.

I want to avoid paying a monthly fee for the iPhone, which means I'll be limited to wifi for Internet connectivity. That should be fine.

Is there a cheaper way to get a test device or any other suggestions?

Answer 1

If you are registered iPhone Developer (which I'm assuming you are since you're trying to build to a physical device), you do not have to pay for OS upgrades for the iPod Touch. The OS upgrades are apart of the iPhone SDK.

If you're looking for an iPod Touch I would recommend either a 2nd Generation, or 3rd Generation model. Both should be fine for average app testing. Just keep in mind that there are a couple device limitations compared against the iPhone 3GS. No compass, GSM Controller, or camera (video or pictures (yet))...

You can purchase an iPhone either from ebay or a third party without having to use a cell phone carrier. Your only limitation would being unable to use the GSM connection (carrier provided).

Answer 2

You may use the emulator which comes with XCode. It's not ideal (far from it!), but at least you won't have to spend any money with it.

Answer 3

You could give Device Anywhere a try. My company used that service for a while and it seemed to meet our needs.

As an independent developer the price may be too much.

Answer 4

On this site you can download any version of the iPhone/iPod touch firmware, thus no need to pay 10$ for the upgrade.