Best Buy announced that it is offering refreshed Apple iPhone 3Gs at store locations nationwide, claiming to be the first retailer to do so on a national scale.

Three-hundred and fifty Best Buy Mobile stores have begun selling the Refreshed iPhone 3G at $149 for the 8GB model and $249 for the 16G model, with both requiring a two-year service contract. New iPhone 3Gs currently retail for $199 (8G) and $299 (16G) at Best Buy Mobile.

With purchases of a refreshed iPhone, Best Buy Mobile customers also are entitled to:

the Complimentary Walk Out Working program, including multimedia and smart phone set up and personalization such as e-mail and data transfer, ensuring the phone is ready for use when the customer leaves the store.

A one year Best Buy warranty in addition to the standard one year warranty both come with the refreshed iPhone 3G purchase. If customers want additional coverage, they have the option of purchasing a two year Geek Squad Black Tie Protection service plan.

Initially at 350 Best Buy stores nationwide, availability of the refreshed iPhones will expand to all U.S. Best Buy stores that offer AT&T by the end of January.

The phones are in "like-new" operating condition, having been returned during a 30-day trial period and refurbished to manufacturing quality grade.