Not content with redefining the mobile phone and computer industries, the iPhone can now take credit for creating new jobs and saving the UK economy, apparently.

The news comes from O2, which is recruiting more than 1,400 new bods to help punters understand just how radically cool their new phone is, once it's launched on Friday.

Half the new staff will be in O2 stores showing customers how to setup their email and buy ringtones from the iTunes store, the other half will be in the O2 call centres explaining to punters why they have to buy their ringtones from the iTunes store and that being unable to install applications is a feature, not a restriction.

We're not clear why a handset which is famed for its ease of use requires 1,400 additional script-readers to help punters understand, but apparently it's "to ensure this good experience from the moment you purchase the iPhone through to activation and on-going support".

Given the way the iPhone has revolutionised all our lives even before we can (legally) buy one, and now is bringing new jobs to the UK economy, surely a knighthood for Steve can't be far off. ®

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