More iPad Shortages in Europe Could Lead to Imminent iPad 2 Launch
Earlier today, we mentioned the fact that UK mobile providers T-Mobile and Orange started to offer heavily discounted first generation iPads, as the device’s price is now reduced by a hefty £100. While neither T-Mobile nor Orange commented on the price reduction, the discount was likely motivated by the imminent launch of the iPad 2, in order to get rid of current stocks of ‘soon-to-be-stale’ first generation iPads.
As noted by several Apple news outlets, things seem to be accelerating, as a sizable number of retailers seem to be out of iPads throughout the world. Typically, such widespread shortages imply an imminent product line refresh.
For instance, Carphone Warehouse, a UK-based reseller, is currently out of iPad 3G (all flavors), and is also out of 64GB WiFi-only iPads.
Also, some distributors of Apple products in Europe and Canada seem to be low on stock or completely out of stock.
While the launch date of the iPad 2 is still unclear at this stage, Apple recently reduced its first generation iPad production output, and heavily ramped up the production of the iPad 2.
