Rumors have iPhone 3GS stock low, absent in some regions
updated 09:20 am EDT, Mon August 1, 2011
Device likely headed toward permanent phase-out
Shipments of the iPhone 3GS are diminishing rapidly, at least in certain regions, a report claims. Sources from "a major European iPhone carrier," for instance, say they are expecting few new units to arrive in upcoming weeks. An informant at a "major US based iPhone reseller" meanwhile claims that 3GS stock is substantially lower than normal. The person adds that in several regions in the US, no 3GS shipments are happening at all.
A source "with a hand" in Apple's global shipping operations explains that shipments are dropping rapidly, with little left in the channel. Lastly, a person with a "popular international carrier" alleges that the 3GS has disappeared from the company's stock database entirely.
Though unconfirmed, the information is consistent with reports that one or more iPhones will be shipping in September, or possibly October. Apple is at least expected to ship a full-fledged successor to the iPhone 4. Some rumors hold that the company will also be releasing a new low-end and/or prepaid model.
