The iPhone 6 has arrived in Costa Rica ahead of schedule, but both shoppers and shopkeepers are wary about “Bendgate” and the “Dali Edition” of the iPhone 6 Plus, the latest and largest version of the revolutionary smartphone that was historically introduced by the late Steve Jobs back in 2007.

 

According to a recent news story by Alejandro Mendez of national newspaper La Nacion, the first report of the iPhone 6 in Costa Rica was published in an advertisement by national electronics and appliance chain Gollo on September 24^th, just five days after Apple CEO Tim Cook unveiled the new gadget to the public.

 

Online retailers such as ADNTienda.com and marketplaces such as MercadoLibre.com are also offering the iPhone 6 at this time. It is important to note that the three major wireless service providers Claro, ICE and Movistar have not yet announced when they will offer the new iPhones since they have not received confirmation from manufacturer Apple. Gollo is offering the iPhone 6 for about $1,215 while ADNTienda.com sells the same device for about $1,224, which includes sales tax. In the United States, the average price of a 64GB iPhone 6 with a 4.7 inch screen.

 

None of the stores and marketplaces offering the iPhone 6 in Costa Rica are carrying the iPhone 6 Plus, a device that can be considered a “phablet” (portmanteau of phone and tablet). The 5.5 inch screen and slim profile of the iPhone 6 Plus are very attractive features for many users; however, concerns about the device’s durability are thus far keeping it away from retailers. According to a spokesperson at ADNTienda.com:

 

“Many people have called to inquire if the iPhone 6 can be bent [as seen in an eye-opening video gone viral]. They ask about what would happen if they purchase it and then it bends or breaks, and they ask about warranties. We don’t sell the iPhone 6 Plus, only the iPhone 6 that does not bend. This concern has slowed down our sales.”

 

In the meantime, the three major mobile communications carriers are hoping that they will be able to launch the iPhone 6 in time for Christmas.