Due to the global chip shortage, shoppers are unable to get their hands on a few of the most sought-after tech gadgets of the holiday season.
According to analysts and online checks conducted by CNN Business, there are few of Apple’s recently launched products like iPhone 13 models, some latest iPads and AirPods have been experiencing delays well into December, depending on the model type, colors, and the shopper’s location, when it’s just six weeks for Christmas holidays.
It’s not just with Apple, last week some of Google Pixel 6 pro devices were also showing shipping dates of late January for their orders. Few products were also shown out of stock on the website on Monday. Due to delays stemming from Covid-related production challenges and the huge difference between demand and supply, Gaming consoles like Xbox and PS5 are almost impossible to get.
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The wait times for popular tech products are always changing, but the challenge for shoppers is clear. “Right now, iPhone 13 and gaming consoles are seeing demand outstrip supply by roughly 20%, which is a telling [sign] for Black Friday and holiday shopping stress,” Wedbush analyst Dan Ives told CNN Business. “We have also seen the new AirPods 3 already on backorder with shortages into Christmas [week].”
The chip shortage, which has also had a significant impact on the automotive industry, poses a significant challenge for tech products. Customers may have to reconsider how early they shop and which specifications and products they’re willing to forego. Companies risk losing revenue during the crucial holiday shopping season, as well as sales momentum for some of their recently launched products.
Take Apple (AAPL), for example, which is known for its highly sophisticated global supply chain. The iPhone 13, which was released in September, is powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, which enables some of the company’s new flagship camera features as well as longer battery life. However, it uses chips from other companies to power certain features like displays, power management, and USB connectivity.
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