Sprint have announced a new loyalty program that rewards long-term and high-spending customers with, among other things, the chance to buy the Palm Pre first.  The scheme, “Sprint Premier”, offers members “an exclusive first peek at new products and services such as the upcoming Palm Pre”, and then gives them priority access to the device when it become available.

It’s not the sort of thing you can immediately leap into, though.  To be eligible for Sprint Premier customers must have been on an individual wireless plan of at least $69.99 per month or spend at least $99.99 per month on a plan that shares minutes, or alternatively have been a Sprint subscriber for at least ten years. 

Other benefits include the ability to upgrade handset after only one year (assuming you’re willing to take out another two-year agreement), “spontaneous special offers” for trips, tickets to shows and sporting events, free minutes or ringtones to celebrate your “Sprint anniversary” and a once-a-year discount on accessories at participating Sprint stores.  The carrier will also run a “plan check” every six months, to tell customers whether they’re on the best plan for their needs.  Eligible subscribers will be automatically enrolled into the Sprint Premier program.