Best Buy Runs Low On Mac Mini/AirPort Extreme, Adds Fuel To The Refresh Fire

A few days ago, we reported that Apple’s channel inventory of Mac Mini’s and AirPort Extreme were running low. Now, it appears that Best Buy’s inventory is also low on these products (Mac Mini’s are backordered, even), furthering the likelihood of a refresh of these products in the near future.

We’ve been hearing that sources familiar with Best Buy’s distribution centers are reporting that supplies of the Mac Mini and AirPort Extreme are extreme low, and that shipments of the AirPort Extreme have stopped coming into distribution centers altogether. The below image is a screenshot from BestBuy.com reflecting backordered status on the Mac Mini.

Additionally, individual Best Buy stores across the US are reportedly not expecting many (or any) more shipments of these products. Considering that both the AirPort Extreme/TimeCapsule and the Mac Mini are ripe for a refresh, we’d consider the report likely, and are expecting a refresh of these product lines sooner rather than later. The below image reflects slowed shipping times (an indication of limited stock) on Apple’s Time Capsule devices at Best Buy Australia

I’m a bit disappointed, considering I just purchased an AirPort Extreme, nevertheless, I am excited to see what might come in the refresh – recent rumors have suggested a possible A4/A5 processor the inclusion of some form of iOS on the devices, opening the doors to much enhanced configuration options.

J. Glenn Künzler

Glenn is Managing Editor at MacTrast, and has been using a Mac since he bought his first MacBook Pro in 2006. He lives in a small town in Utah, enjoys bacon more than you can possibly imagine, and is severely addicted to pie.