We previously reported that prospective buyers of Apple's iPhone 3G will only be able to activate their new phones at physical AT&T and Apple stores. However, an internal AT&T Mobility memo obtained by AppleInsider suggested that customers may be able to activate their iPhone from the comfort of their own home.

Customers, upon purchase of their new iPhone 3G, will be able to leave a retail store without a fully activated unit. However, they can only do so after having signed a two-year service agreement and iPhone data plan with proper identification. Afterwards, this information along with the unit's IMEI number will be sent to AT&T's systems, allowing the customer to activate it at home, even through iTunes if they chose to do so.

Anyway, here's are the exact contents of the memo describing the iPhone 3G's activation process:

The new 3G device will be activated in store in both AT&T and Apple stores. Customers must accept AT&T and Apple Ts & Cs, sign a 2-year agreement, and select the data plan for the iPhone 3G before leaving the store. The current iTunes activation process will no longer be required for iPhone 3Gs, however a short tether process to unbrick the 3G device will be performed in all AT&T stores (tether cords will be provided). Apple stores will also perform this tether process, however in the event that a customer's device is not tethered in the Apple store, their device will be inoperable until they get home and tether through iTunes. Prepaid and Pick Your Plan will not be allowed on the 3G device.

In addition, customers may be able to select a new rate plan at home before the iPhone 3G's July 11 release date. They can then bring along a printout of their plan at any AT&T and Apple store where reps can verify the document before handing over a new iPhone.

More details concerning the clear set of policies and procedures for iPhone 3G activations will be revealed as we get closer to July 11, so keep yourselves tuned in to this space for more updates.