Order an iPhone 6 from midnight PT – if Apple's web store holds up better than its livestream

We've had the hype. Now it's time for fans to empty their credit cards. Apple will accept orders for the new iPhone 6 starting from midnight tonight, Pacific Time, or 0800 UTC wherever you are.

Punters can head online and reserve their reassuringly expensive iGear ahead of the stuff being put in the post and going on sale officially next week, September 19 specifically.

Those on the East Coast may need to stay up rather late, but hey, it's still better than spending a week waiting in line with these people. This is assuming the Apple website stays up better than its wobbly iDay live stream.

You will also have the option to pick up your "pre-order", as Apple calls it, in the store – just be sure to avoid the withering glares of those who spent the last two nights in a queue.

Apple unveiled the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus on Tuesday at a party near the company's Cupertino headquarters. The iOS 8 handsets will feature larger screen sizes (4.7in and 5.5in, respectively) and will also bring NFC hardware to the iPhone for the first time.

While Apple rejected talk that the iPhone 6 Plus would be delayed due to manufacturing problems, this is Apple we're writing about – so expect shortages and queues.

The official release (and delivery of "pre-orders") will come two days after Apple emits its iOS 8 update, which will include the introduction of Apple's Pay platform – though older kit will not be able to use the bump-to-pay features until the Apple Watch arrives.

Speaking of which, those hoping to get an Apple Watch with their new phones will be disappointed. The wristslab companion to the Jesusphone isn't slated to hit the market until at least next year.

If you don't manage to get a pre-order for release day, there's always the retail launch on September 19 at 8am wherever you are. ®