Want to be the first on your block to have the new iPhone?

How about the first in your country? 

How about first in the world?

Well, over in Asia, fans (is that right word? how about rabid consumers) are already in line to pick up the hot little gadget.

Yes, indeed! According to the New York Times, the July 11 launch will be the first chance for Asian consumers to own an iPhone, and related websites have been swamped with inquiries and early orders.

In Japan, one of the world's most advanced mobile markets, 20 people were lined up outside Softbank's flagship mobile store in Tokyo on Wednesday morning, with a sign at the head of the queue reading "We Love iPhone."

Four New Zealanders with deck chairs, sleeping bags and a small tent started queuing on a chilly Tuesday night outside the Auckland shop of Vodafone, which will launch the iPhone at 12:01 a.m. Friday (1201 GMT Thursday), the first in the world.

Step right up! Who's next?