iPhone 7 available today in SA

Tens of thousands of South African rands will be forked over today as Apple fans rush to claim the latest smartphone from the manufacturer.

The 4.7-inch iPhone 7 and 5.5-inch iPhone 7 Plus are available today in South Africa from all major mobile operators, the iStore and other retailers.

The flagship devices were launched in the US last month. Apple ditched the audio jack in the new iPhone 7, kept the same look as the iPhone 6S and added a camera in the Plus version.

Prices start at R13 000 for the smaller model with 32GB memory, and range as high as R19 500 for the larger device with 256GB.

The iStore in Sandton opened its doors at 7am, to give hordes of Apple fanatics the chance to pick up their new expensive toy before work.

The shop offers new contracts or upgrades across all cellular networks, regardless of where the contract was initiated. It says no additional paperwork will be required.

The new iPhone features an advanced camera system, dust- and water-resistant design, stereo speaker system, and the A10 Fusion chip.

The iStore put together a list of the cheapest contracts available from each mobile operator, with some deals exclusive to the store.