A mysterious iPhone shortage appears rampant across the nation. Does it mean a 3G (third generation) model is imminent?
Piper Jaffray online media analyst Gene Munster joins the panel for this conversation. Following is a synopsis of his main points.
What's going on?
About a week ago we started to pick up on iPhone shortages on the East Coast, explains Munster, and yesterday the US was basically sold out. This is unheard of for a company like Apple. I think something is definitely coming.
Such as…
A new iPhone, replies Munster. We think it will be similar to what’s out now, but slimmer and have new applications.
What’s the timing of the release?
Last night I talked with a Taiwanese component supplier who said it could be out in limited numbers as early as the end of this month, Munster says. This just shows how well Apple keeps things stealth.
Seems like a peculiar strategy?
They typically do this, he adds. Apple doesn’t want to get caught with a bunch of iPhones and we’re seeing the channel wind down. This is a critical product for Apple. It doesn’t make sense that they’d just be out of stock.
Is the stock a buy on this shortage?
Yes, says Munster. We feel confident there is a 3G phone coming.
