I think it's a good sign.
If all retailers where out of stock, maybe Apple will release the PowerBooks faster. There could be a few possible hold-ups. I don't believe they are waiting for moto anymore. I've thought long and hard about this and it's come to this...
Idea One:
The ibook team basically came up with the 12" powerbook. Which means that they've been working on putting G4 chips into the ibook. Which makes me believe that the ibooks will all be updated to the G4 chip next rev. using the new moto chip. Bringing it up to or past a Gig.
This would mean that the Powerbooks would have to use the G5 chip.
Idea Two:
It sounds like there could be a hold up in the 12" powerbook. (I can't believe it's a hold up with the 15". All they needed to do with the 15" is put it in a new case, and maybe give it a wider screen.) The 12" is suppose to be thinner, so I could see that posing a slight problem? They're waiting on the 12" to release all the powerbooks at the same time.
Idea Three:
Waiting for Panther, which will be the loaded OS for the new Powerbooks.
Idea Four:
Waiting to release the Powerbooks at Seybold Sept 8 or the better bet Apple Expo Sept 16.
These are some some thoughts. All I know, is that I sold my iBook a month and a half ago. Money in my Bank account to purchase a new 12" PowerBook. THIS SUCKS!
APPLE FOR THE SAKE OF GOD, PLEASE STOP THE PAIN...RELEASE THE POWERBOOK!