Canadian iPhone shortages

The iPhone 3GS continues to be unavailable in much of Canada, writes the Globe and Mail. Despite promises of continual shipments, Rogers says it is once again out of stock for the iPhone 3GS -- launched in June of this year -- and even the iPhone 3G, released in 2008. The carrier's sub-brand, Fido, is still said to have some 3G models in stock.

"We are out of stock and still taking orders as our inventory continues to come in week to week," says Rogers spokeswoman Liz Hamilton. "While we have continuous incoming inventory, we are filling back orders on a priority basis and we appreciate the enthusiasm and patience of our customers."

The situation sits in contrast with some regions, like the US, where AT&T is promising delivery of iPhones within seven to 14 days. Conversely, Australia has also run out of iPhones, and Apple COO Tim Cook warned last month that the company is unable to keep up with demand in much of the world. Canadians can still find iPhones in stock at Apple Stores, but outlets are located only in a handful of major cities, such as Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver.

Rogers has meanwhile announced that it is shrinking the capacity of iPhone owners' Visual Voicemail boxes. Subscribers can currently keep as many as 50 messages, lasting 5 minutes each, for up to 30 to 60 days, depending on when a message is first played back. On October 1st the message maximum is being reduced to 35, with a hold period between 10 and 20 days.

by MacNN Staff