AT&T has announced a new service that is designed to make buying the iPhone 3G easier this holiday season. The service allows shoppers to pre-qualify credit and determine eligibility for the iPhone 3G online before venturing into the store.

Existing AT&T customers can also verify their eligibility for the upgrade to the iPhone 3G. AT&T says its goal is to make getting the iPhone easier for customers in advance of the expected heavy sales over the holiday season.

Apple's iPhone 3G is currently the best selling smartphone on the market and the second best selling device overall behind the RAZR V3. Holiday sales for the device are expected to be significant. After setting up the device online, customers go to a retail store to complete the transaction.

Via AT&T