New MacBook shipments have begun?
September 15th 2008
Quoting Citigroup's Richard Gardner, Barrons reports "field checks" indicate shipments of new MacBooks have already begun. Moreover, revised consumer portables are said to include a "very thin aluminum casing, an LED-backlit display and an aggressive entry-level price point."
Also, the analyst says that falling DRAM, NAND and flat panel prices will positively impact Apple's earnings, driving profits above guidance and Wall Street estimate. Gardner estimates EPS of $1.20 (vs $1.11 consensus) on revenues of $8.1-billion.
To date, the best guestimate / prediction / rumor of when new Apple portables, etc would be announced is Oct 14.
Editor's note: Although the source of Apple's fourth fiscal quarter windfall is somewhat novel, that the company will once again blow away its own guidance and analyst estimates should come as no surprise.
Also, what exactly does 'shipments have begun' mean? Just left the factory? On boats? Already at Fedex distribution centers?
That said, it's impossible to know whether new MacBooks will go on sale tomorrow (or any other Tuesday between now and Christmas).
A tantalizing rumor, but lacking in satisfying detail...
What's your take?
via Electronista
