Price drops hint at new iPods?

Unusual price drops in the advertised price of Apple's iPod have prompted some to speculate that the company is set to introduce a line of iPods to replace its existing products, according to a new report. Retailers such as Amazon.com have begun below-MAP (minimum advertised price) advertising for Apple's range of iPods. Amazon is offering a seven percent (about $20) discount on Apple's video iPod and a five percent discount on the iPod nano. While retailers sometimes offer discounts, they are usually hidden until a customer has added the item to the cart and/or available as an "instant rebate". The below-MAP advertising suggests that Apple has lifted the MAP restrictions in order to allow retailers to clear their inventory, hinting at the introduction of new iPods in the near future, according the publication. Earlier this month big-box retailers were told that the high-end 60GB is "at risk" of being replaced and/or discontinued. In addition, AppleInsider reports that Meijer, a discount superstore chain in the Midwest, is advertising 10 percent discount sales on Apple's iPod in its weekend circular.

Filed under: iPod, industry