iPod Shuffle Shortage Said to be Caused By Change in Component Suppliers

We reported earlier this week that Apple’s retail stores were running short on the supplies of the iPod Shuffle, amid speculation that Apple’s tiniest music player might be discontinued. We’re happy to report today that the shortages are apparently due to changes in Apple’s component supply chain.

Billboard, via MacRumors:

Rather than being discontinued, however, sources with knowledge of the situation tell Billboard that Apple is actually going thorough component supplier changes that have interrupted production of the Shuffle.

Apple declined to comment.

Supplies of the diminutive player remain tight, with online Apple store shipping estimates remaining at 7-10 days.

Some users worried that the iPod Shuffle may be on its way out, as Apple had discontinued sales of the iPod Classic last year, due to the fact the company could no longer obtain parts to build them.  The 1.8-inch mechanical hard drives used in the iPod Classic were sourced from Toshiba, who discontinued its entire line of 1.8-inch hard drives.

iPod sales sales have continued to decline following the introduction of Apple’s iPhone and iPad devices. Recently update cycles for the iPod lineup have lengthened, leading to concerns about the future of the iPod.

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