Now available online (http://www.oystercard.com/prepay/fares.htm) or
over the phone (0870 849 9999).

Yes, I'm as shocked as anyone else! I'm going to try ordering one online
now...


So, available to order online now, can be topped up at stations from
15th December, can be used from 5th January on tube/DLR


What makes you think you can't use prepay now?

The line "You can start using Pre Pay from the 5th January, but you can
buy online or over the phone now and avoid the rush" at the bottom of
www.oystercard.com/prepay