Apple used that strategy when the original iMac debuted in August 1998. When the consumer desktop launched, Apple shipped new iMacs overnight from California as well as overseas so dealers could have product to sell at midnight on the day of official launch. Sources said they believe official estimates of 30 to 45 days for G4 PowerBook availability is conservative. All those interviewed for this story said they were optimistic that product will begin to flow sooner than most think but that Apple's track record leaves room for skepticism. My Apple representative told me 45 days has always been the standard quote Apple uses when they don't have a firmer date.
Online customers hear one thing.
I hear another from Apple and my distributor. You know, I don't know whom to believe. Dates and days are getting confusing. The Apple Store has backed up its estimated shipping date from 21 to 45 days in less than two weeks. As of Tuesday, Ingram Micro, a major distributor, has been quoting a date of March 5 for availability of PowerBook G4 systems.