iPad 2 Supplies Reportedly Constrained Ahead of iPad 3

Supplies of the 3G iPad 2 are constrained across various distribution channels, reports 9to5Mac. Constraints often indicate that an update to device is near.

According to a source familiar with Apple's product distribution channels, the iPad 2 WiFi + 3G is constrained. Supply shortages span beyond Apple's own distribution channels, though, as major retailers are reporting "out of stock" status for the 3G iPad 2. This includes, but is likely not limited to, Carphone Warehouse and Orange in the United Kingdom. Carphone Warehouse is reporting shortges of five out of six of their 3G iPad 3 models (everything but the black 64GB unit), and Orange UK is reporting shortages of half of the 3G iPad 2 SKUs: both 32GB models and the white 64GB unit.

Interestingly, Wi-Fi iPad 2 supplies are not yet constrained which may indicate that Apple plans to keep that model around at a discounted price. It's suggested that the 3G iPad may be discontinued in favor of an iPad that supports both CDMA and GSM on the same chip.


Apple is expected to announce the iPad 3 during the first week of March.

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