Apple Rumor: Price Drop Imminent for iPods and Portables
July 23, 2008
In a research note sent to clients by the investment firm Piper Jaffray, there is a speculation that Apple might launch redesigned line of iPods with a lower cost iPod touch models. Apparently, Apple is trying to regain confidence of its investors who were caught by surprise Monday after the company estimated its current-quarter earnings would be well below Wall Street expectations.
Piper Jaffray’s analyst Gene Munster outlined his case in a research note:
“We believe Apple is readying new iPods and new portables that will apply downward margin pressure in the Sept. quarter and into FY09. We believe there is an 80% chance Apple will introduce redesigned MacBooks and possibly new MacBook Pros at lower price points. Specifically, Apple may re-enter the $999 price point (currently $1099)with the MacBook, or test the $1,799 price point with the MacBook Pro (currently $1999). In addition, we expect slightly redesigned iPods in the Sept. quarter, with lower-cost touch-based iPods for the holiday season. We believe Apple is getting slightly more aggressive with its pricing; but overall the company is not diverting from its strategy of premium pricing.”
This is not a good news for people who recently purchased iPod Touch for $299 + tax + $9.99 for iPhone 2.0 Software update. Considering that a redesigned version might be launched in just a couple of months, 300+ bucks is not a pocket money after all.
There were stirrings in March about a tech refresh of the mac mini, but I haven’t heard anything lately. Any news or updated speculation on that front?
Apple has a deal for students, giving away ipod Touches w/ a purchase of a mac. The deal ends mid-September. Apple often does this before it releases new models.