MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - Hundreds of hardcore Apple fans found themselves waiting in long lines overnight, in the middle of the Miami Beach Zika hot zone, just to get their hands on the new iPhone 7.
7News was on scene, in front of Apple’s Lincoln Road location, Friday Morning, where people were aware of the Zika concerns, but the focus seemed to be on the new iPhone. “Been here since 11 o’clock at night and you know, I’m excited, but at the same time tired,” said Apple fan, John Davilla, “I have my sweater in here, so I’ll take it out just in case of any Zika virus, man. I’m always protected.”
One woman simply replied, “No” when asked if she had taken any precautions before heading into the Zika zone. “We were at the beach yesterday, and you know, the Zika plane was passing by,” said Liz Contoli.
One iPhone user said he’s bought the iPhones at launch for the past couple years.
Many people brought their lawn chairs, along with blankets and pillows to keep them comfortable as they set up camp on the sidewalk. “I brought a little fold-up chair, a change of clothes,” said Lloyd Pearson, the first person in line.
Pearson said he’s been camping out since Tuesday. For him, being first is more than just getting the iPhone, it’s about bragging rights. “2012 I was first in line. 2013 I was first. I didn’t do it 2014, then in 2015, I came back and I got beat, so I had to win this time.”
Apple representatives have been going down the line, which stretches all the way down to Ocean Drive, just to make sure they will have enough phones for everyone.
The price for the new iPhone runs from $649 to $769.
Eager Apple customers said they are most excited for features such as the new camera, to take better quality selfies, wireless AirPods, longer battery life, and the new black and jet black designs. “You know, the resolution and how it’s gonna be with all the new applications coming out,” said Davilla.
Employees at the Apple store have been up all night, getting the store ready for the Friday morning rush, unpacking new iPhones as the line grows longer outside.
Miami Beach Police have also stepped up security to ensure everyone stays safe. They will be lining everyone up and escorting them into the store.
The store opened at 8 a.m.
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