Apple Slashes iPod Prices Prior to Media Event

[MacRumors]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/09/09/apple-slashes-ipod-prices-prior-to-media-event/)

Ahead of today's "It's Only Rock and Roll" media event, Apple has reduced prices across the board on its iPod touch, iPod nano, and iPod classic lines.


http://images.macrumors.com/article/2009/09/09/091850-ipod_touch_price_drop_500.jpg

iPod touch (http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod/family/ipod_touch):
- 8 GB now $189, down $40
- 16 GB now $249, down $50
- 32 GB now $279, down $120

iPod nano (http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod/family/ipod_nano):
- 8 GB now $129, down $20
- 16 GB now $149, down $50

iPod classic (http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod/family/ipod_classic):
- 120 GB now $229, down $20

As noted in our rumor roundup (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/09/08/its-only-rock-and-roll-rumor-roundup/) yesterday, Apple is expected to introduce new iPods at today's event, with the iPod touch, iPod nano, and possibly the iPod classic, gaining digital cameras. Last-minute production problems with the cameras, however, have been rumored to be delaying the launch of the new models.

It remains to be seen whether today's price reductions are an interim measure to offer the existing models at competitive pricing until the new models are ready for launch or if Apple will continue to offer these previous-generation iPods alongside the new models as a strategy to lower prices and boost demand. Microsoft's Zune HD launches next week (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/08/14/microsoft-attempting-to-recruit-app-store-developers-for-zune-hd/) at price points of $219.99 for 16 GB and $289.99 for 32 GB, exerting pressure on Apple to either reduce prices or add features to its iPod touch line.

Article Link: Apple Slashes iPod Prices Prior to Media Event (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/09/09/apple-slashes-ipod-prices-prior-to-media-event/)

[Small White Car]

I strongly suspect that this means today's new iPods will be "on sale in October" or something like that. (Or 2 weeks from now, at the very least.)

[SwiftLives]

My cynical side is thinking that this doesn't bode well for new iPods being released today.

[wrldwzrd89]

I strongly suspect that this means today's new iPods will be "on sale in October" or something like that.
Yes, I tend to agree... given the reports of last-minute production problems, this seems likely to be the case.

[kornyboy]

Wirelessly posted (iPhone: Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU iPhone OS 3_0_1 like Mac OS X; en-us) AppleWebKit/528.18 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/4.0 Mobile/7A400 Safari/528.16)

This appears to confirm that new iPods will be releases today. Pretty obvious though. They have released new ones at the september media events every year.

[wrldwzrd89]

Wirelessly posted (iPhone: Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU iPhone OS 3_0_1 like Mac OS X; en-us) AppleWebKit/528.18 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/4.0 Mobile/7A400 Safari/528.16)

This appears to confirm that new iPods will be releases today. Pretty obvious though. They have released new ones at the september media events every year.
Yes, but will they ship immediately? That remains to be seen - somehow I doubt they will be available right away, though.

[Sambo110]

I will be kinda mad if they don't release the iPods today, as my friend was gonna get one. And the Australian prices are still normal, they better go down a lot as well.

[londonmystery]

Prices haven't dropped in the UK yet. Who knows if they will??? :):)

[Beric]

I strongly suspect that this means today's new iPods will be "on sale in October" or something like that. (Or 2 weeks from now, at the very least.)

Yup. Little doubt about that now. Apparently that rumor was correct.

[trip1ex]

I thought Apple would drop the price of the new upcoming 16gb iPod Touch down to the $229 pricepoint, but now that doesn't seem likely given the old 16gb iPod Touch has only been reduced to $249.

[kbmb]

These prices are a joke.

-Kevin

[turtlebud]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPod; U; CPU iPhone OS 3_0 like Mac OS X; en-us) AppleWebKit/528.18 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/4.0 Mobile/7A341 Safari/528.16)

I hope they don't delay new iPod until october but cutting prices ahead of the event seems odd to me, wonder if these last minute problems are indicative of jobs not being at the helm with his critical eye on everything.

Of course the othe option is that they'll keep the current line of touches and introduce a new 64gig one with camera at the 399 price point

[Chintan100]

Yesss... Thats more like it!!

[talkingfuture]

Prices haven't dropped in the UK yet. Who knows if they will??? :):)

There is always a bit of a time delay on things like this, when they make a change without the store going down.

[retroneo]

This is very unusual.

No change in the Australian store either. Even more unusual.

[themoonisdown09]

I think that the prices were dropped because the newer models won't be ready until October. They dropped the prices so quickly (without making a "Stores Down" scene) to have more competitive prices with the Zune HD coming out next week.

These prices are a joke.


I don't get the joke. :confused:

[asphyxiafeeling]

Apple is slashing the prices of the current iPod line, and keeping them in stock. In addition, new iPod models are being released with new features, at a premium price.

Similar things happen in their notebook line.

Then again, that would possibly make their product line "too bloated".

maybe not though.

[kcjohn]

It's obvious the price drop was to make up for the delay. They don't want the Zune HD to steal their thunder. Huge blow though, Microsofts loving this..

[andiwm2003]

looks they updated the prices too early. the prices where meant for the new ipod's. could be wishful thinking as well.

the price difference between the 16 and 32GB ipod touch is only $30. interesting.

[rrd]

iPod touch: from $229 still showing on the front page of the store...

[Zianac]

...

[adamgs]

Smells to me like they will be introducing a 64GB touch. Those are some drastic price changes on the 32gb models...*so fingers crossed*

It certainly would be the way to steal the Zune HD's thunder!

[t0mat0]

Is a decent way to get rid of stock & also create a bigger user base.

[QCassidy352]

I strongly suspect that this means today's new iPods will be "on sale in October" or something like that. (Or 2 weeks from now, at the very least.)

yes indeed. This is bad news. :(

[goinskiing]

Let's not get too restless, it's only a few more hours than we'll know the skinny for sure. I'll be in class for the next few hours, but I must admit that I'll be antsy all day and won't be able to focus in class today. I just hope the new ones are available today, I have cash in pocket ready to go. :D

[mags631]

It's obvious the price drop was to make up for the delay. They don't want the Zune HD to steal their thunder. Huge blow though, Microsofts loving this..

Possible -- it's also possible that the new iPods have additional features (other than storage capacity) and Apple's using the price reductions on the older models to minimize losses to the HD or simply to clear out stock.

[goinskiing]

Is a decent way to get rid of stock & also create a bigger user base.

This sounds reasonable to me.

[SwiftLives]

They're very unusual price points for iPods. Traditionally, we've seen price points that end in $49 and $99 (except for the entry level touch). Secondly - when has Apple ever lowered the prices of existing models before a media event?

These prices — especially for the Touch — make me think that we're not going to see any of the new iPods released until well after the Zune is released. On the surface, this appears to be a stopgap from Apple to remain competitive with (er...more likely undercut) the Zune until they can roll the new products out.

Don't get your hopes up, folks. They'll certainly be announced today. Just not released for awhile.

[Unspoken Demise]

Certainly makes the 32GB more affordable, but would :apple: really make this slash, to release brand new models today? It would make a lot of people not "in the know" angry. I'd be irked if I bought what I thought was a new iPod to find its old news a few hours later.

[joepa99]

...the "buy a mac, get an ipod" promotion will be extended if the new models are not available for purchase today. Would make sense, because it would clear out more inventory and sell more macs in the process.

[SnappyGalbladde]

Sent this infomation in this morning. Nice to see that the MacRumors team is on the ball. :-)

[Bjohnson33]

the price difference between the 16 and 32GB ipod touch is only $30. interesting.

I noticed that as well - I don't think many would buy the 16GB model, if spending an extra $30 would double it to 32GB.

[Garafraxa]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/09/09/apple-slashes-ipod-prices-prior-to-media-event/)

Microsoft's Zune HD launches next week (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/08/14/microsoft-attempting-to-recruit-app-store-developers-for-zune-hd/) at price points of $219.99 for 16 GB and $289.99 for 32 GB, exerting pressure on Apple to either reduce prices or add features to its iPod touch line.

Article Link: Apple Slashes iPod Prices Prior to Media Event (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/09/09/apple-slashes-ipod-prices-prior-to-media-event/)

The only way for a Zune to "exert pressure" on an iPod is to physically stack the Zune on top of the iPod.

[Dagless]

That looks to be a big price drop on the 32gb (I don't know since I don't use dollars). Hope we get a price drop here too. Quite a few of my friends have been wanting a 32gb model but not wanting the £280 price! Make me the bearer of good news Apple!

Only a few hours to go.

[SnappyGalbladde]

I noticed that as well - I don't think many would buy the 16GB model, if spending an extra $30 would double it to 32GB.

That's the power of "the third choice". If they just listed the 8 and 32 it'd be a lot harder choice to make.

[miketcool]

Not sure if I would be shelling out the additional $$ to get a camera. I kind of like my iPod to be an iPod. If this is to "steal thunder" away from the Zune, I don't get it. Its a price, not a features list. No one is going to skip the Zune HD release over a rival price point.

This is clearly over a delay, too much inventory, a delay BECAUSE of too much inventory remaining or adding new features. I vote for the later two

[ssennott]

Thank you Apple. Price cuts like this make a difference for those using iPods in education. It also helps those who have difficulty speaking who are using Proloquo2Go, www.proloquo2go.com .

iPod touch:
- 8 GB now $189, down $40
- 16 GB now $249, down $50
- 32 GB now $279, down $120

Just imagine that you buy 10 iPod touches for a classroom or school. The price just went from $2,290 to $1,890. That is basically two free devices per ten. Nice!

[sellitom]

Let's not get too restless, it's only a few more hours than we'll know the skinny for sure. I'll be in class for the next few hours, but I must admit that I'll be antsy all day and won't be able to focus in class today. I just hope the new ones are available today, I have cash in pocket ready to go. :D

Gross, school. Skip!

[aurichie]

The only way for a Zune to "exert pressure" on an iPod is to physically stack the Zune on top of the iPod.

The pressure is on Apple now. Microsoft surely has a winner with the new Zune HD and they will take a lot of market share away from Apple. I don't think a camera and price cuts will help Apple. iPods are no longer cool.

[kcjohn]

You would think apple knew about the delay weeks ago. Maybe they already had the beatles on itunes lined up and couldn't cancel the event (9/9/09). Makes the event interesting no doubt. As great as Apple is with marketing, I'm gonna love how there gonna spin this delay if true.

[bokdol]

store is down

[mpb2000]

So much for that price drop...

[Andy-V]

The US store is down again. Maybe a mistake?

[rvittori]

new iPod coming. I hope they have a new version of AppleTV also.

[miketcool]

This price change is more in line with being competitive against the $399 32GB ZiiLabs Egg then anything else...

[mizzoucat]

So, there's going to be a 64gb ipod touch for $349, right? :confused:

[iMrNiceGuy0023]

Or like the 3G and 3GS they will sell both giving customers an Option to purchase with or without a camera. The camera model being priced a little higher

[nathanj.massey]

UK store down too.

[techfreak85]

this price cut is not good.....

[Unspoken Demise]

This price change is more in line with being competitive against the $399 32GB ZiiLabs Egg then anything else...

Do you really find it to be much of a threat? Ive not seen much that makes me believe it is a competitor.

[goinskiing]

And the store is down in the US...

[Squonk]

the price difference between the 16 and 32GB ipod touch is only $30. interesting.

I had glossed over this fact. If I were in the market for a Touch, the 32GB would be the obvious touch.

My wife told me about a wacky dream she had last night. We were on vacation and needed an alarm clock, so I bought a touch. She assumed that I was going to return it the next day and I said I wasn't. She figured that it was not biggie since it was only $150. But she was PISSED when I told her it was $1200. :eek:

So what is the $1200 iPod Touch that she was dreaming about? :confused:

[corywoolf]

The pressure is on Apple now. Microsoft surely has a winner with the new Zune HD and they will take a lot of market share away from Apple. I don't think a camera and price cuts will help Apple. iPods are no longer cool.


MSFT Fanboy! ;)

[RMo]

As others have reported, the US Store is (still) down for me. I hope these are the prices for the new models, but I have a feeling they may just be reduced prices on the old ones to clear out their stock.

Hopefully we'll know more in a few hours! :D

[chairguru22]

I had glossed over this fact. If I were in the market for a Touch, the 32GB would be the obvious touch.

My wife told me about a wacky dream she had last night. We were on vacation and needed an alarm clock, so I bought a touch. She assumed that I was going to return it the next day and I said I wasn't. She figured that it was not biggie since it was only $150. But she was PISSED when I told her it was $1200. :eek:

So what is the $1200 iPod Touch that she was dreaming about? :confused:

The new tablet.

[Ashmanspice]

They should stream apple events to the stores and then make new products available to buy when its finished lol

[macswitcha2]

apple store is being updated now...

[charlituna]

I"m not going to bother quoting prior comments because I'd be quoting everything posted before now.

so here's the reply and everyone is smart enough to figure out where you belong (I hope)

No way is any of this is a response to Microsoft. Apple has been doing a Sept ipod event for at least a couple of years (always within 1-2 days of the end of the Back to School promo which was set up to dump stock on the old ipods). Microsoft picked their dates in response to this little fact.

also they always cut prices on the old models. on everything when something new comes out. this is not a shocker. also they the cuts have nothing to do with when the new items are released. again, they do this to clear out stock.

overseas will see price cuts as well, it just takes a tad longer to update the site. by tomorrow you should know what's what, day after at the latest

[QuarterSwede]

That's the power of "the third choice". If they just listed the 8 and 32 it'd be a lot harder choice to make.
Exactly. The 16GB is now primarily there to up sell you to the 32GB.

[Variant]

I currently have a 16GB touch on order from Apple through the buy a Mac get an iPod deal. It is suppose to arrive tomorrow.

If they lower the price on the CURENT models, can I expect a refund? I wouldn't expect one if there was new hardware that was cheaper to manufacture, ect, but if it is the EXACT same model, shouldn't I be entitled to a refund of the difference in price?

[Teh Don Ditty]

this price cut is not good.....

How is a price cut not a good thing?

:confused:

[kcjohn]

Everyone assuming a delay and BAMN! Available today. We all know apple hates leaks. Maybe, just maybe, Apple is messing with us.

[MACWhite]

if the store is being updated, im pretty sure the iPods will be available today

[KnightWRX]

How is a price cut not a good thing?

:confused:

Because it could be an indication that the changes won't be massive and far reaching. Maybe a few higher capacity models with a new feature, but a lot of the old stock still being touted as new. Imagine getting to buy last year's technology at 20$ off. People expect a lot from this event.

That is why a price cut is not a good thing.

[infiniteentropy]

But it seems a bit soon to bring down the Apple Store... they still have about 3 hours to go... seems a bit early to me.

[chairguru22]

I currently have a 16GB touch on order from Apple through the buy a Mac get an iPod deal. It is suppose to arrive tomorrow.

If they lower the price on the CURENT models, can I expect a refund? I wouldn't expect one if there was new hardware that was cheaper to manufacture, ect, but if it is the EXACT same model, shouldn't I be entitled to a refund of the difference in price?

A refund on what? You didn't buy the iPod with any money, you are getting an iPod for free with your Mac purchase. The whole promotion is intended to get rid of old iPod stocks before the September release of the new iPods. So you are still getting a free iPod.

I remember the promotion the year the iPod touch first came out. I believe the iPod touch came out in the middle of the promotion and you could pick any iPod to have for free except the iPod touch.

[alec]

I gotta guess that this means the new iPods won't be ready for at least a month?

[queshy]

I currently have a 16GB touch on order from Apple through the buy a Mac get an iPod deal. It is suppose to arrive tomorrow.

If they lower the price on the CURENT models, can I expect a refund? I wouldn't expect one if there was new hardware that was cheaper to manufacture, ect, but if it is the EXACT same model, shouldn't I be entitled to a refund of the difference in price?

I suppose when you do the refund process you'll get back what you paid for it.

[Michael73]

Supposing we get substantive improvements in the iPods, who in their right mind are going to buy existing models when Apple has CONFIRMED (after today), that something newer, better, faster is coming in a matter of days or weeks?

[4God]

But it seems a bit soon to bring down the Apple Store... they still have about 3 hours to go... seems a bit early to me.

Well, that's 3 hours 'till the event starts. Apple usually keeps it down until the event is over. So that's like at least 4 hours down. It really seems a bit early to take it down.... :confused:

[Helmigurt]

How is a price cut not a good thing?

:confused:

Maybe some people are pissed that more and more people are jumping on the apple wagon because of cheaper macs/pods/phones and they are loosing their elitist status sitting in starbucks..

[chairguru22]

If the main feature on the iPod update is a camera then I don't see it as a huge update. Everything has a camera already and do you really use it? I barely use the camera on my phone and if I needed to take pictures, my phone will do fine, I don't need my MP3 player to take pictures too.

Then again, Apple could very well come up with some new and amazing way to incorporate picture taking to your music experience... maybe a new app, updated software...

The price drops are key here. No one is gonna want to pay more money for a dinky little camera that is already on their phone/iPhone/notebook/actual digital camera.

[Unspoken Demise]

Maybe some people are pissed that more and more people are jumping on the apple wagon because of cheaper macs/pods/phones and they are loosing their elitist status sitting in starbucks..

Well yeah, but they'd still be elitist for sitting in a Starbucks. Worry not.

[Sambo110]

The Australian store is down. To me this screams new iPod's, I would almost bet new iPod's will be out in a few hours. Tempted to stay up late to see :p.

[Chupa Chupa]

Why is the Apple Store closing so early? Doesn't it usually close about an hour before an event. Seems odd it would close 3 hours prior.

[Andrmgic]

Supposing we get substantive improvements in the iPods, who in their right mind are going to buy existing models when Apple has CONFIRMED (after today), that something newer, better, faster is coming in a matter of days or weeks?

That simply depends on whether or not the extra money saved warrants the lack of whatever new features the ipods have. If someone knows they would be perfectly happy with the current model at a reduced price, for a lot of people it wouldn't make sense to pay the extra $70-80 (guessing) for the newest model.

If apple really has hit production problems on the new ipods and can't bring them out this month, I have to say that I hope Microsoft doesn't squander the opportunity.

The Zune HD looks incredibly slick and I hope it does well for Microsoft.

[APPLENEWBIE]

My guess is that the repricing this morning was a mistake, not a tease. I think that those prices are the prices for whatever new or revised products are announced today. It makes no sense to reprice the line for A FEW HOURS and then reprice again at the event. Somebody in the store division is looking for a new job...

Also, if a relatively major repricing is not good enough to announce at the event, then what is important enough to announce at the event. More hint that this morning's repricing was a mistake.

[macintoshtoffy]

This is very unusual.

No change in the Australian store either. Even more unusual.

It isn't unusual; the retail chains in New Zealand haven't been able to get stock for over a month. The only purpose of the price cuts in the US store is because they most likely have a back log of stock they need to flush through whilst the rest of the world is pretty much empty already.

Why cut prices in an area where the supply line is already empty? the purpose of a price cut is to get old stock moving. If you have no stock to move - why cut prices?

Btw, the Apple Store in New Zealand is down (along with the US etc); refreshing on their way.

I think someone mentioned the 'new pricing' maybe linked in some way to the new products. The whole line up of SKU's have been deleted so it appears to be an across the board remake of their iPod lineup.

[andiwm2003]

Supposing we get substantive improvements in the iPods, who in their right mind are going to buy existing models when Apple has CONFIRMED (after today), that something newer, better, faster is coming in a matter of days or weeks?

well if the new model costs $399 and the old model costs $229 then I would buy the old model assuming it does what I want it to do.

I don't need a camera or better gaming capabilities to check mail, read ebooks and run music of it on our bose sound system.

[talkingfuture]

My guess is that the repricing this morning was a mistake, not a tease. I think that those prices are the prices for whatever new or revised products are announced today. It makes no sense to reprice the line for A FEW HOURS and then reprice again at the event. Somebody in the store division is looking for a new job...

I think you're absolutely spot on there. Someone is probably on the wrong end of a major bollocking right now.

[Chupa Chupa]

I currently have a 16GB touch on order from Apple through the buy a Mac get an iPod deal. It is suppose to arrive tomorrow.

If they lower the price on the CURENT models, can I expect a refund? I wouldn't expect one if there was new hardware that was cheaper to manufacture, ect, but if it is the EXACT same model, shouldn't I be entitled to a refund of the difference in price?


Price match on the iPod or the Mac? I don't see how you price match a "free" iPod. However, if you are talking about the Mac, as long as you bought a stock unit, yes they will price match for 14 days after purchase. However, I hightly doubt Mac prices are coming down now. Maybe if Apple holds its usual Oct. hardware event, but this is about iPods today.

[aznkid25]

The big question is will Steve Jobs be there? I think he will be the one presenting

[corinhorn]

The Zune HD looks incredibly slick and I hope it does well for Microsoft.Will I be able to squirt with my friends with the Zune HD?

[Chupa Chupa]

My guess is that the repricing this morning was a mistake, not a tease. I think that those prices are the prices for whatever new or revised products are announced today. It makes no sense to reprice the line for A FEW HOURS and then reprice again at the event. Somebody in the store division is looking for a new job...

Also, if a relatively major repricing is not good enough to announce at the event, then what is important enough to announce at the event. More hint that this morning's repricing was a mistake.


Price cuts are typical Apple M.O. to get rid of existing stock when new products arrive. Apple's CFO once explained this during a quarterly conf. call regarding price cuts on existing products. The price cuts also serve to equalize the price between the old and new product, as the new product will probably be priced less than the previous generation. Apple doesn't want the old merch priced higher than the new.

[sushi]

I think that the prices were dropped because the newer models won't be ready until October.
This makes sense.

My guess is that the repricing this morning was a mistake, not a tease. I think that those prices are the prices for whatever new or revised products are announced today.
Could be.

However, I don't believe that a new 64GB iPod touch will cost the same as the discounted price for the 32GB one.

I think that Apple will reduce the prices of the old models to clear out inventory. The new models will be introduced as the old or slightly less price points.

Guess we'll know in a few hours.

[APPLENEWBIE]

Assuming that the pricing announced this morning is for the new products, does it make any sense to price the 16gb iPod Touch only $30 less than the 32 gb model? Only 12% more than the 16 gb? Who would buy it?

[Beric]

Assuming that the pricing announced this morning is for the new products, does it make any sense to price the 16gb iPod Touch only $30 less than the 32 gb model? Only 12% more than the 16 gb? Who would buy it?

No, it doesn't. So the price drop was either a mistake, or the new iPods won't be in till October.

[BeyondtheTech]

Half of you interpret the price drops as "yup, rumor is confirmed, the new iPods are gonna be delayed" and the other half says "this confirms that the new iPods will be released today." And of course we have that one guy who says that Zune HD will kick the asses of the entire iPod line.

Looks like I'll be real confused for the next couple hours.

[BeyondtheTech]

Why is the Apple Store closing so early? Doesn't it usually close about an hour before an event. Seems odd it would close 3 hours prior.

I would assume it's a lot to change. If it's the entire lineup of iPods, iWeb has to publish a lot of pages. ;)

[Chupa Chupa]

The big question is will Steve Jobs be there? I think he will be the one presenting

Depends on how much weight he has gained back. If he is still scrawny no way. He'll become the headline, not the iPods (not that what we've seen so far deserves headlines, but whatever ink and pixels they get).

[kcjohn]

Half of you interpret the price drops as "yup, rumor is confirmed, the new iPods are gonna be delayed" and the other half says "this confirms that the new iPods will be released today." And of course we have that one guy who says that Zune HD will kick the asses of the entire iPod line.

Looks like I'll be real confused for the next couple hours.

Looks like we have all the scenarios covered. The question is, who's gonna be right..

[Chupa Chupa]

This makes sense.


Could be.

However, I don't believe that a new 64GB iPod touch will cost the same as the discounted price for the 32GB one.



Maybe. But we aren't talking about a 64GB iPod touch. We are talking about the all new, 2x faster iPod Touch 64 BIT! Yes, Apple brings 64bit processing to the iPod. Now you can listen to your music, watch your vids, and use your apps 2x faster than before. Watch War and Peace in just an hour and a half now. And only with the iPod Touch 64bit. Eat it Zune.

[APPLENEWBIE]

I think I got it...

8gb iPod Touch - dropped

16gb Touch - $189

32gb Touch - $249

64gb Touch - $279, enhanced with camera, multitasking, new processor, video, better speaker, built in microphone...



With MS and Apple currently in a public pissing match, and with apple being one of, if not the largest purchaser of ram, pricing like that is possible. The 32gb Zune HD at $289 will look a bit silly.

[rth231]

I would assume it's a lot to change. If it's the entire lineup of iPods, iWeb has to publish a lot of pages. ;)
Obviously that was a joke... but imagine if Apple actually built their website with iWeb?

With MS and Apple currently in a public pissing match, and with apple being one of, if not the largest purchaser of ram, pricing like that is possible. The 32gb Zune HD at $289 will look a bit silly.
Its almost obvious Apple with undercut Microsoft. I can guarantee though that Microsoft will sell 4 Zunes on launch day. One to Bill Gates, his wife, and his two kids.

Anyone else finds it strange that Apple has to take down their entire store 3 hours before a keynote to update a few products? I understand its for hype and everything, but this is a bit much, no?

[AJ1BostonMASS]

I went around some stores yesterday one of the ones I stopped at was K-mart.

They had slashed the ipod prices.
Classic was $209.
8gb touch $169
16gb nano was $149.

I dont remember the rest. They were on clearance though.

[shayneomack20]

IMO the price cuts were not supposed to be leaked. The web designers/ admins were probably given instructions to change the prices ahead of the show but obviously they were only given that. When they finished either out of stupidity or on accident it leaked.

[AJ1BostonMASS]

Looks like we have all the scenarios covered. The question is, who's gonna be right..

Not all scenarios.

My guess is No new ipods. Introducing the tablet. (In the ad she was holding the tablet not the ipod:rolleyes:)

Now we have it all covered.

[rth231]

By the way it still says starting at $229 here: http://www.apple.com/ipodtouch/

[Beric]

IMO the price cuts were not supposed to be leaked. The web designers/ admins were probably given instructions to change the prices ahead of the show but obviously they were only given that. When they finished either out of stupidity or on accident it leaked.

Yeah, that's my opinion as well.

[mrklaw]

I wonder how much money the apple online store loses worldwide when its closed for 4-5 hours like today?

[Beric]

I wonder how much money the apple online store loses worldwide when its closed for 4-5 hours like today?

I'd say $1 million or so.

[Chupa Chupa]

Its almost obvious Apple with undercut Microsoft. I can guarantee though that Microsoft will sell 4 Zunes on launch day. One to Bill Gates, his wife, and his two kids.

Anyone else finds it strange that Apple has to take down their entire store 3 hours before a keynote to update a few products? I understand its for hype and everything, but this is a bit much, no?

1) You are sorely underestimating Zund HD sales. 4! Get real. You know Steve Ballmer will buy one. Throw in Paul Thurrott. That makes 6. Banner day for M$.

2) Yes, 3 hours is a bit much and odd. Gotta assume Apple had the update ready to roll yesterday. Hard to believe Apple's servers are that slow.

[martint84]

I wonder how much money the apple online store loses worldwide when its closed for 4-5 hours like today?

I wonder how much money the apple online store makes 30 seconds after it reopens when new products are announced?

[ottawaapplefan]

The pressure is on Apple now. Microsoft surely has a winner with the new Zune HD and they will take a lot of market share away from Apple. I don't think a camera and price cuts will help Apple. iPods are no longer cool.

You have to keep in mind zunehd will only be avaible in the states.So sure it may cut into the american market but the ipods are avaible world wide something the zunehd is not.

[DavoMrMac]

I think the prices drops are for two reasons.

New lower pricing to compete with Zune HD... with the new iPods shipping in two weeks.

Also to make space for the tablet media device at about £100 ($180) higher than the iPod touch used to cost.

[FoxyKaye]

I know it's for the lineup that will be obsolete today, but, Apple...cut...prices? I'm still in shock.

[Beric]

I also wonder if they just weren't able to get rid of all their stock through the back-to-school deal. Is that likely?

I wonder how much money the apple online store makes 30 seconds after it reopens when new products are announced?

As much as it would have made otherwise. With more server backlog.

[miketcool]

Do you really find it to be much of a threat? Ive not seen much that makes me believe it is a competitor.

In feature comparison, quality of hardware, and format; I believe the ZiiLabs Egg to be a far superior device. Given that it is a truly open platform, with an SD Card (NOT MICRO) slot, the option to install 2 fully supported operating systems, and run by a company with a lot of experience in consumer electronics (Creative Labs), I think the device IS a threat.

Right now it is a dev device waiting for more investment, IE cell carriers, but it won't be long before this gets a public announcement with an ad campaign. If it runs flash natively the way it is rumored, the Egg internet experience will shatter the iPhone.

[queshy]

I think I got it...

8gb iPod Touch - dropped

16gb Touch - $189

32gb Touch - $249

64gb Touch - $279, enhanced with camera, multitasking, new processor, video, better speaker, built in microphone...



With MS and Apple currently in a public pissing match, and with apple being one of, if not the largest purchaser of ram, pricing like that is possible. The 32gb Zune HD at $289 will look a bit silly.

Ah, so this is going to be kind of the iPhone 3G vs 3GS thing? I think you might make a very good point...

[zw-gator]

I haven't read though this, but anyone know the Canadian price drops?

The Apple Store in Canada has been down for at least 1.5 hours

[MACWhite]

IMO i dont see very many people who have the 2Gen iPod touch getting the 3rd unless they want a camera on their iPod. I think this iPod touch update is mainly for those who have the 1st Gen ( like i do).

PS Video editing would be so nice for the 3rd Gen!!

[ImNoSuperMan]

Why the hell did they delay the event by an hour this time. As if the delay from regular tuesdays to wednesday wasnt enough :mad:


Cant wait any more. 1 MacTouch with extra Cheese err Screen size please. :D

[zw-gator]

Why the hell did they delay the event by an hour this time. As if the delay from regular tuesdays to wednesday wasnt enough :mad:


What are you talking about? The event is still going ahead at 10

[miketcool]

Why the hell did they delay the event by an hour this time. As if the delay from regular tuesdays to wednesday wasnt enough :mad:

9 inch screen debuting on 09-09-09

$999.99 Tablet Mac debuting on 09-09-09

$99.99 Touch on 09-09-09

9 Year Exclusivity added to AT&T 09-09-09

Aerosmith 9 Lives iPod Classic on 09-09-09

$9 added to every order to cover new Apple Sticker price on 09-09-09

[carletonguy]

so i went online to buy an imac and saw that they are still advertising the free ipod for edu students. it says only good until the 8th, but then when i go to buy my mac, it offers me the free ipod to complete the purchase. if they had the time to update the prices of the ipods, they should have also removed the links and auto-jumps to this, now expired, promotion. i'm half way tempted to go through the process and make a stick about it to get my rebate. argh.

[goinskiing]

IMO i dont see very many people who have the 2Gen iPod touch getting the 3rd unless they want a camera on their iPod. I think this iPod touch update is mainly for those who have the 1st Gen ( like i do).

PS Video editing would be so nice for the 3rd Gen!!

For me the speed and capacity bump are plenty for me, the camera is extra. Who knows what other goodies :apple: may add? We'll know in an hour or so.

[MR MAC]

Price match on the iPod or the Mac? I don't see how you price match a "free" iPod.

You don't. Apple's Back-to-School promo was for a FREE iPod Touch 8GB after a $229 rebate, not the 16GB that he said he purchased. His question about the refund is still valid since he paid extra for the 16GB model.

[Gyrferret]

So there's this thing called a Zune....

[VSMacOne]

I think the price drop reflects the prices of the NEW iPods coming out later today. Somebody must've slipped up and changed the prices before the event today... OOPS!!

[zw-gator]

so i went online to buy an imac and saw that they are still advertising the free ipod for edu students. it says only good until the 8th, but then when i go to buy my mac, it offers me the free ipod to complete the purchase. if they had the time to update the prices of the ipods, they should have also removed the links and auto-jumps to this, now expired, promotion. i'm half way tempted to go through the process and make a stick about it to get my rebate. argh.

I wouldn't buy it. The company issuing the rebates will do anything to not honor your rebate.

[michael.lauden]

Cant wait any more. 1 MacTouch with extra Cheese err Screen size please. :D

well regardless when it happens, you will most likely be disappointed anyways

[ImNoSuperMan]

well regardless when it happens, you will most likely be disappointed anyways

I know I`ll be disappointed and there wont be any tablet announcements today. One can still dream though :D

[VSMacOne]

I know I`ll be disappointed and there wont be any tablet announcements today. One can still dream though :D

There might be some tablet announcement today.. this price drop and then sudden closing of the online Store makes me think there's something going on :)
... we might just get to see ONE MORE THING today :D

[APPLENEWBIE]

I think I got it...

8gb iPod Touch - dropped

16gb Touch - $189

32gb Touch - $249

64gb Touch - $279, enhanced with camera, multitasking, new processor, video, better speaker, built in microphone...



With MS and Apple currently in a public pissing match, and with apple being one of, if not the largest purchaser of ram, pricing like that is possible. The 32gb Zune HD at $289 will look a bit silly.

The fellows (and ladies) in Redmond would be apoplectic...

Some other ideas:

32gb Touch has same feature set as the 64gb.

32gb and 64gb Touch have larger screen (6" or so?) and HD or OLED.

Regarding multitasking, the stated reason for no multitasking on the iphone is to protect the telephony feature above all others. That is not a concern on the iPod Touch.

[Eidorian]

The software better be good today.

[talkingfuture]

The fellows (and ladies) in Redmond would be apoplectic...

Ballmer would probably explode!

[macandipodfan]

The fellows (and ladies) in Redmond would be apoplectic...

Some other ideas:

32gb Touch has same feature set as the 64gb.

32gb and 64gb Touch have larger screen (6" or so?) and HD or OLED.

Regarding multitasking, the stated reason for no multitasking on the iphone is to protect the telephony feature above all others. That is not a concern on the iPod Touch.

That would be great, but who would buy the 32GB if the 64GB is only $30 more?

[martint84]

The software better be good today.

Agreed. The iPods won't be anything new since we've seen it all before in the 3GS. iTunes, however, is long overdue for a major update. If Apple expects us to keep buying apps, music, movies, etc., we need a better way to manage them.

[ddTaylor]

These prices are a joke.

-Kevin

Indeed. I know people are anti-Zune but with a beautiful OLED 16:10 display and other options for LESS money than the 'old' iPod. I was really sure Apple would release a $149 iTouch to compete as the Zune has other features that at this point outshine the iPod and the OS on the Zune has also been well reviewed although not in the iTouch league - it will give Apple a run for the money - or in the case on MS, less money.

D

[APPLENEWBIE]

Ballmer would probably explode!

How could you tell?

[Beric]

The software better be good today.

Yup. Cause, like Gizmodo just said, "I don’t need another crappy camera in my life."

[ImNoSuperMan]

There might be some tablet announcement today.. this price drop and then sudden closing of the online Store makes me think there's something going on :)

Online stores always close during apple events. So no surprise there.

[corinhorn]

That would be great, but who would buy the 32GB if the 64GB is only $30 more?

No one, which would kind of be the point.

[dubhe]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/09/09/apple-slashes-ipod-prices-prior-to-media-event/)
Update: The online Apple Store is now down.

why is this always so exciting?

[APPLENEWBIE]

That would be great, but who would buy the 32GB if the 64GB is only $30 more?

You got me there... I have no idea. Maybe the $249 price was a mistake within a mistake?? Would make more sense at $229 or so. Or... Maybe the enhanced $249 32gb Touch would be priced with a high spread ($60) between it and the 16gb with inferior feature set?

Also, by making the 32gb and 64gb a different form factor, all the remaining "old" version cases could be used for the "cheap" 16gb. Which would mean the 16gb would have no camera... Which would lead people up to the next level (more expensive)... the 32 and 64gb models.



DISCLAIMER: This house of cards I have created is likely to come crashing down in a little over two hours... GIGO

[elhungarian]

I'd upgrade to 32GB if i could get it for $30-40 more than the 16. I'm sure a ton of people would.

Can't wait for the Event.:apple:

[puffnstuff]

I hope the iPods are delayed. If I like I will have time to sell some things to get one.

[Eidorian]

Yup. Cause, like Gizmodo just said, "I don’t need another crappy camera in my life."I don't have a mobile crappy camera but I know that many other people do. I understand how it's pointless to add another one to their repertoire.

[Dagless]

How could you tell?

How could you not? :D

But to those saying the prices are a joke; why? That looks like a brilliant price for the 32gb iPod Touch.

[kcjohn]

http://http://www.levysoft.it/images/p1735_one_more_thing.jpg

[talkingfuture]

Wonder which band will perform at the end? About the only surprise left at the moment.

[Unspoken Demise]

Wonder which band will perform at the end? About the only surprise left at the moment.

El Beatles.
Surprise, you have been ruined.

[hashholly]

Indeed. I know people are anti-Zune but with a beautiful OLED 16:10 display and other options for LESS money than the 'old' iPod. I was really sure Apple would release a $149 iTouch to compete as the Zune has other features that at this point outshine the iPod and the OS on the Zune has also been well reviewed although not in the iTouch league - it will give Apple a run for the money - or in the case on MS, less money.

D

lol, mark my words, the new zune wont hurt apple's pmp marketshare, if it were all about specs and price, Apple would not be hovering around 70% marketshare.

[puffnstuff]

John Mayer FTW!

[JGowan]

I'd say $1 million or so.WHY?! It's not a restaurant being closed for 4 hours and their customers go somewhere else, losing that revenue. People who would buy simply will come back when the maintenance is over with.

Perhaps you'd like to add something to change the logic of this.

[kcjohn]

Wonder which band will perform at the end? About the only surprise left at the moment.


Sir Paul McCartney and Chris Brown remake of the McCartney Jackson hit "Say,Say,Say"http://http://www.multinet.no/~jonarne/Hjemmesia/Favorittartister/michael_jackson/michael_jackson_paul_mccartney.jpghttp://www.multinet.no/~jonarne/Hjemmesia/Favorittartister/michael_jackson/michael_jackson_paul_mccartney.jpg

[Beric]

WHY?! It's not a restaurant being closed for 4 hours and their customers go somewhere else, losing that revenue. People who would buy simply will come back when the maintenance is over with.

Perhaps you'd like to add something to change the logic of this.

If I decide I want to buy a Macbook on the Apple store. Then I see the store is down. I then think, "I just want to buy it now, so I wonder where else I could buy it?" So I go to Amazon and order one there. Apple still gets some profit, but would have gotten a higher profit margin on their site.

[WG5516]

If I decide I want to buy a Macbook on the Apple store. Then I see the store is down. I then think, "I just want to buy it now, so I wonder where else I could buy it?" So I go to Amazon and order one there. Apple still gets some profit, but would have gotten a higher profit margin on their site.

LOL... You wouldn't really do that would you? Especially considering the fact that the website says "We'll be back soon..."

[LOLaMac]

The only way for a Zune to "exert pressure" on an iPod is to physically stack the Zune on top of the iPod.

Lulz. Are you serious? Let's see now, Microsoft is set to release the Zune HD, and on the eve of that launch, Apple takes a huge chunk out of the prices of it's iPods to, coincidentally, put them in line almost exactly with said MS player's price point. Hmmmm? Coincidence? Maybe Apple is just doing it to salute you, the paying customer because "uncle Steve" really loves you. Or maybe the Zune's much lower price is putting "pressure" on Apple to stay competitive? I dunno.

And how how about the laptop prices. Microsoft runs an ad campaign that continually takes potshots at the high prices of Apple offerings, and whatdyaknow, Apple slashes the prices on all it's laptops. Pure coincidence? Or maybe Apple did it in response to "pressure" from Microsoft's ads. You guys should all be kissing Microsoft's feet, seriously. If not for the quality of their products (which admittedly, can be less than stellar), then for the fact they've put "pressure" (there's that word again) on Apple to lower the prices on some of their own products. Now if only MS would come out with something targeting the MacPro.

[Gyrferret]

http://http://www.levysoft.it/images/p1735_one_more_thing.jpg

... ZOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNNNNNNN!

Just kidding. But kinda disappointed by the projected offerings this year..... and trying to sell a 1st gen iPod touch is hard......

[Beric]

LOL... You wouldn't really do that would you? Especially considering the fact that the website says "We'll be back soon..."

Well, I wouldn't have ordered a Macbook from the Apple store in the first place. CA sales tax. ;)

[hashholly]

Lulz. Are you serious? Let's see now, Microsoft is set to release the Zune HD, and on the eve of that launch, Apple takes a huge chunk out of the prices of it's iPods to, coincidentally, put them in line almost exactly with said MS player's price point. Hmmmm? Coincidence? Maybe Apple is just doing it to salute you, the paying customer because "uncle Steve" really loves you. Or maybe the Zune's much lower price is putting "pressure" on Apple to stay competitive? I dunno.

And how how about the laptop prices. Microsoft runs an ad campaign that continually takes potshots at the high prices of Apple offerings, and whatdyaknow, Apple slashes the prices on all it's laptops. Pure coincidence? Or maybe Apple did it in response to "pressure" from Microsoft's ads. You guys should all be kissing Microsoft's feet, seriously. If not for the quality of their products (which admittedly, can be less than stellar), then for the fact they've put "pressure" (there's that word again) on Apple to lower the prices on some of their own products. Now if only MS would come out with something targeting the MacPro.

While one could assume thats the reason, it's easier to assume that prices have been lowered across the board since we are in the middle of what's called a rescission....while Apple has still made a killing during this time, they obviously know you can only sell a premium product at a premium price during a time when people are cutting back on their expenses.

LOL by your logic the Apple Airport Extreme will also be lowered to $120 dollars since almost all other wireless routers are available for under that price point.

[kcjohn]

With the Zune HD and Zii Egg coming out to compete with the touch, Apple better not screw this up.

[Chupa Chupa]

With the Zune HD and Zii Egg coming out to compete with the touch, Apple better not screw this up.

Here I fixed your post for you:

With the Zune HD and Zii Egg coming out to compete with the touch, :rolleyes: Apple better not screw this up.

[Micjose]

These should've been the prices from the START!

[twoodcc]

very nice to see this! i sure hope the new ipods will be at these prices as well

[griz]

Guessing now this was a hoax since the prices were just announced by steve and aren't even close.
Looks like 3.1 and the new iTunes are the biggest announcement of the day.
I'll keep waiting for a camera in the Touch.
Camera in the Nano....Baaaah!

[mrhidiho]

http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod/family/ipod_touch?mco=Nzk2MTI3OA