What's your source for this?
Doesn't look like BHPhoto or JR got the memo...
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/758418-REG/Apple_MC769LL_A_16GB_iPad_2_with.html
http://www.jr.com/apple/pe/APP_MC980LL_SL_A/
By phone or in-store only. Is there a reason?
Because if you're purchasing online then the seller shouldn't make a difference (from their perspective) and they get 100% of the profit instead of sharing it with a reseller. Good business sense.
I am little lost. What is the difference between ordering online vs. ordering on the phone regarding the profit they make?
You mean because I can use cashback sites and they would lose 2%?
By phone or in-store only. Is there a reason?
I'm assuming you haven't read other threads/forums/news/datawebz on the internetz, websites that will be selling it?
What poloponies says make more sense BUT then how will you explain nationwide sales at Wal-Mart, Best Buy and Sam's Club. That is competing with Apple's retail stores, no?
2% cashback does not effect Apple at all. The reseller loses money. If they do it for that, fine. Sure it is not much but saving $17 on a $829 is still a saving not to mention some CB sites give more than 2% cashback which can save you up to $20. Sure, not much but $20 is $20.
What poloponies says make more sense BUT then how will you explain nationwide sales at Wal-Mart, Best Buy and Sam's Club. That is competing with Apple's retail stores, no?
So, AT&T is selling it online. I believe only 3G model but still. I started to believe not selling online is not Apple's request.
It could very well be that some resellers want buyers on the phone or in-store as an opportunity to pitch accessories / warranty upgrades.![]()