Apple fans have already started lining up for the iPhone 5 at the flagship Apple Store on Fifth Avenue in New York City.

According to CNET, people began lining up at the Apple Store on Friday, a week early. Lining up early for the iPhone has been a tradition for Apple fans since the launch of iPhone 1. Each year, however, an increasing number of enterprising people have populated the line.

The first few people in line this year are seeking publicity for their companies. First in line is Hazem Sayed, who is there to promote Vibe, a social-networking app. Body-paint artist and model Jessica Mellow took the third spot, promoting her blog.

While the line seemingly lacks the enthusiasm of hardcore Apple fans, there is still a tremendous demand for the iPhone 5. AT&T reported that the pre-orders for the phone were record-breaking.

Apple announced Monday that iPhone 5 pre-orders topped 2 million in the first 24 hours, double the number the iPhone 4S received last year.

Link to video

http://cnettv.cnet.com/iphone-5-record-preorders-early-lines/9742-1_53-50131463.html