“The wait is almost over. On Monday (US time) Apple CEO Steve Jobs is expected to take the wraps off the new iPhone in a calculated show of bravado intended to wow the world,” Stephen Hutcheon reports for The Sydney Morning Herald.

“When the iPhone made its debut a year ago, it was first launched in the US before becoming available in five European countries. This version – one that will use the faster third generation or 3G mobile network – is being pitched at the world,” Hutcheon reports.

“True to form, Apple has not given any hints about what’s in store. Remarkably, it has managed to keep details about the phone, its price, its features tucked away under a heavy veil of secrecy,” Hutcheon reports.

Hutcheon covers the scuttlebutt, including:

• June 29 release date
• Global reach (70 countries and counting, not “50,” Stephen)
• Australian availability on June 19th or later to allow for Apple Store Sydney to open

Hutcheon also looks at potential price(s), features, and “one more thing,” in the full article here.