Verizon stores from Bryant Park to Bismarck are preparing for an iPhone rush.

The Apple gadget will hit Verizon stores for the first time today and lines are expected. There was no word yesterday of early birds braving the cold overnight to be the first in line, but hordes are expected once doors open at an earlier-than-usual 7 a.m. at Verizon stores.

Apple stores will also open at 7 a.m., while Best Buy, which will also carry the phone, opens at the usual 10 a.m.

Until last week, the iPhone had been sold exclusively through AT&T.