Buying iPhone from AT&T vs Apple

[skallal]

I've been agonizing over whether to buy a new iPhone 4S or now. If I do decide to buy it, I can buy it from AT&T or Apple. Both have retail outlets locally, but there are more AT&T stores, thus more convenient.

A coworker says he prefers to buy direct from Apple when buying Apple products. Is there any disadvantage buying from AT&T in case I have warranty issues? An AT&T rep told me I still get Apple Care and the first year and can renew it when the year is up. Is this true?

 

[AdmiralAdama]

The only advantage buying from the carrier,
is the hardware discount they offer for locking in to a contract. It's a nice incentive but can be costly if you break the contract.
AA

 

[seneca18]

I bought mine from Sprint and got Apple care. I don't think it really matters where you pick it up at. If anything goes wrong the cell company will just refer you to Apple so I would say if it is more convenient get it at ATT but if you want better information or even help setting it up go to Apple.