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Kinect Sensors Sell Out Across Online Retailers
Microsoft's latest piece of hardware, Kinect, debuted across retailers with quite a bit of fanfare leading up to its release, including a huge event in Times Square and appearances across major talk shows. Though no official sales numbers have been released, retailers have reported a high demand for the new device.
Microsoft reported high preorder numbers that has led the company to increase its estimate of Kinect sales from three to five million, though exact preorder numbers have yet to be seen. "Microsoft apparently has good vibes from retail," says Wedbush analyst Michael Pachter. "They expect sellouts."
"We've seen a tremendous amount of excitement and demand for [Kinect] and saw lines at our midnight openings around the country," explains Best Buy's Chris Homeister. "We are currently sold out online, but we continue to work with Microsoft to obtain product shipments now and throughout the holiday season." After a quick check the website is taking back orders for the standalone sensor, but do have 360 bundles in stock.
Amazon and GameStop retail websites sold out of the Kinect standalone sensor, but still have the 360 bundles in stock as well. Target had "very strong pre-sales" for Kinect, selling out of the sensor and 360 bundle via its online store according to Target spokesperson Tara Schlosser.
Wal-Mart's web store still has Kinect in stock, but expect a high demand for product, says Wal-Mart rep Ravi Jarawala. "We will continue to restock throughout the season." After checking Wal-Mart's website, it appears the standalone sensor with Kinect Adventures is running for $199 as opposed to the standard $150 as it requires the choice of an additional Kinect game.
While Kinect seems to be doing well with online sales, retail availability is still unknown. Granted we don't know how many these retailers had in stock to begin with to determine whether or not these sales were a success. We'll just have to wait for official sales numbers. Anyone have trouble finding the sensor in stores?
[Via USA Today]
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