We have had lots of evidence tending to show that it will be the 24th at Verizon stores. I'm not going to repost in all here, you can filter back through this thread because its all in here.
There is simply no way that the ThunderBolt will not be available in Verizon stores. It's a Verizon phone, you will be able to get it at their stores. The Best Buy "exclusivity" rumors refer to the idea that they will have first rights to selling the phone before Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, Costco, and other big box retailers.
Although, I really do hope it comes out at both BB and VZW on the 14th. But I'll believe it when I see it, or get confirmation directly from Verizon. Until then, it's all still speculation.
I've seen the evidence, and I think it's sketchy at best - now this press release sure sounds like the Thunderbolt will be a Best Buy exclusive...
harshpatel11 said:
http://www.bby.com/2011/02/07/best-buy-announces-national-retail-exclusive-and-pre-sale-availability-of-the-htc-thunderbolt/
Yes, the evidence is not very concrete, that's why I said it's still speculation. But that is all we have to go on, so take it for what it's worth.
Again, that article says "national retail exclusive," which just further confirms what I have been sating. That means BB will get the phone soon, whereas Wal-Mart, Target, Costo, Sam's Club, etc. will not (or at least will have to wait several weeks or more to get it). That does not mean that the ThunderBolt will not be available at Verizon stores. The question that remains is whether Verizon stores will get it on the same day as Best Buy, or whether it will be 10 days-2 weeks later. That's what everyone should be looking into.
