Just hours after AT&T announced it would give users a break on upgrade pricing for the iPhone 3G S, Apple began sending out refund notices to qualifying customers. “Based on AT&T’s updated qualification criteria, we are pleased to inform you that you are eligible to receive a refund on your recent iPhone 3G S purchase,” reads the email from Apple that some users are already receiving.

The email goes on to say that the Order Acknowledgment and Shipment Notification emails will reflect the original purchase price, but a refund representing the difference between the original price and discounted price will be issued. The refund will be processed within five days, the company said.

AT&T earlier today said it would allow customers who are eligible to upgrade in July, August or September 2009 to upgrade beginning Thursday, June 18. This gives users a chance to buy the new iPhone 3G S at the discounted price.