Second delay in model's short history

Shipping times for the 27-inch iMac have been pushed out to three weeks, Apple's online store indicates. As recently as earlier this week, times had been reported as low as a few days. A 21.5-inch iMac can still be ordered and shipped within the space of 24 hours, though delivery dates may vary.

It is unknown why Apple would delay shipments for a second time so early into the 27-inch model's history. The first delay, which occurred in December, was claimed by Apple to be a result of "huge" demand. Others have suspected however that the company wanted to address outstanding problems, such as cracked screens and video glitches.

While a software fix was issued for the glitches, errors have persisted for some people, which could mean that Apple is working on a more permanent solution. Other possible explanations for the delay might not only include low stock, but also impending product announcements. A January 27th press event could see the debut of iLife 2010, which would have to be installed on every Mac shipping afterward.

by MacNN Staff