UK Nano, Shuffle discounts may hint at impending refresh
updated 04:20 pm EDT, Wed August 11, 2010
Only one local retailer so far dropping prices
Sharp price cuts at a major UK retailer may be foreshadowing the arrival of new iPods. Some Morrisons outlets -- namely those with "techno bars" -- are now selling 4GB iPod shuffles for only £20. The iPod nano has meanwhile been slashed 40 percent, down to £60. The deals are only valid while stores still have stock, and some locations are reportedly already selling out.
Such discounts typically only arrive when Apple is expected to update hardware. An iPod event is currently rumored to be taking place in mid-September, with an emphasis on a new Touch, though new Nanos and Shuffles are also anticipated. The Shuffle may conceivably gain a miniature touchscreen.
Morrisons is so far the only UK retailer to dramatically lower prices. Companies like Amazon, Debenhams and Dixons are charging less than Apple, but their pricetags have remained consistent for some time. Apple does not normally do clearout sales, although it did hold one briefly last year on the same day it announced the current iPod models.
