HomePod shipping estimates have finally started slipping just days before the speaker makes its big debut. New customers in the U.K. will now have to wait until February 13 for delivery, but Apple retail stores will be selling HomePod this Friday.
Whenever Apple launches a brand new product, it is almost guaranteed to sell out in minutes. It happened with iPhone. It happened with iPad. It even happened with Apple Watch. But it didn’t happen when Apple started taking HomePod pre-orders on January 26.
Despite rumors of constrained supplies at launch, HomePod was still available for launch day delivery days after orders opened. In fact, shipping times only just slipped this morning in the U.K., where Apple is now promising delivery by February 13 at the earliest.
Those in the U.S. and Australia can still place orders for February 9 delivery for now.
HomePod should be easy to obtain
It’s unclear why HomePod didn’t sell out quickly — especially after so many positive first impressions. It could be that Apple had a significantly greater supply than expected. It could be that fans just don’t want to spend $349 on a speaker.
Sales will surely be boosted by positive reviews, which are expected to come later this week. Those who have been lucky enough to try HomePod already report that it offers exceptional sound quality that you would typically have to spend $1,000+ to obtain.
If you’ve only just decided you want a HomePod and you live in the U.K., seemingly slow sales should mean that HomePod will be easy to obtain come Friday. Apple stores and a bunch of third-party retailers — including Argos and John Lewis — will be selling the device.
Via: MacRumors
