Yes you need an iTunes account, even to download the free ones I think. Sky Sports app is free to download, but for the one where you get to watch all three channels they take your bank details and charge you £6 a month (although I think you can still get 3 months free on O2). Also, that Sky Sports app will only work in the UK...
You also need to connect the iphone to itunes (and create an account) to 'unbrick' it - ie activate it. If you don't connect it to itunes it doesn't work.
Sorry if this already on here but does anybody know how to set up a Contact Group for texting on an iPhone? And can I send a text to more than ten people at a time?