View this article at: http://www.macnn.com/articles/08/08/29/iphone.supplies.increasing/
Friday, Aug 29, 2008 2:30pm
iPhone 3G supplies reach equilibrium across US
Apple's constant iPhone shortages have finally eased after six weeks of supply problems, according to Lehman Brothers analyst Ben Reitzes. First reported by Apple Insider, Reitzes reveals that Apple has 16GB iPhone 3G (black and white) models available in all US retail Apple stores, a first since the launch on July 11. And 8GB models have reached 99 percent availability as well. Supply is finally improving, according to Reitzes.

"We have seen a major improvement in iPhone availability in the US throughout August. It appears as though supply has met demand entering September," Reitzes said.

Reitzes believes that supply is reaching demand due to Apple's ramping up production, not a slowing demand for the phone. He is also confident that apple will sell 3.8 million phones in September, calling the number 'conservative.'

iPod supplies have dipped lower, but this is not seen as supply problems on Apple's part, instead it is another indicator of an impending iPod refresh. Reitzes also continued to predict lower prices on the new iPod touch models rumored to arrive around September 9, pointing to lower iPhone prices as a force for reduced iPod touch pricing.

Supplies for other Apple items are in good shape. All Mac models are at 24-hour availability status. Reitzes believes this indicates no new Mac arrivals at the rumored September 9 iPod event.