Even with the new lower iPhone prices ($199 or $299), many are complaining that with AT&T's higher rates ($10 more per month than before), the total price at the end of your 2-year contract period is higher than the old iPhone. Furthermore, rumor has it that unlike the good old days when you could buy an iPhone by mail order and then unlock it, you'll be forced to enter into an AT&T at the Apple or AT&T store when you buy your iPhone 3G.

However, according to AT&T's own website, their Early Termination Fee (ETF) of $175 DOESN'T APPLY during the first 30 days following activation. Therefore, you can buy your $199 iPhone 3G, sign up for service at the store (if they make you), immediately cancel the service with no penalty, and proceed with whatever unlocking method the ubergeeks come up with.

edit: It looks like AT&T's policy will be that cancellations will require return of the iPhone 3G to the store. RATS!