Orders being taken for 128GB Microsoft Surface Pro; device ships in two to three weeks

Last Saturday, the Microsoft Surface Pro launched and the 128GB variant quickly sold out. That was followed by the sell out of the 64GB variant. Some have accused Microsoft of rigging the system to guarantee a sellout and by one count, only 20,000 units were sold. Regardless, a tweet sent out by Panos Panay, the GM of the Microsoft Surface line, said that the 128GB model would be re-stocked on Saturday (today) while the 64GB model was replenished during the week.

Microsoft  is now once again accepting orders at its online store for the 128GB version of the tablet ($999). Shipments will go out in two to three weeks. Once inventory is all accounted for, the "Not in stock" sign will go back up. Microsoft also said that Best Buy and Staples will each accept reservations. If there is no inventory at the Best Buy store in your area, the big box retailer will accept reservations only if inventory is coming. If a store does not expect to re-stocked soon, or all of its expected tablets have been reserved, the "Sold Out" sign will go up.

At Staples, the business supply retailer is accepting orders for the 64GB model ($899), but will not take orders for the 128GB unit until the tablet is back on the shelves. Canadian? You can reserve the 64GB Microsoft Surface tablet at Best Buy and at the Future Shop. Microsoft said it would announce when the 128GB model is available again up north.

If this is indeed a manufactured sellout designed to catch a buzz (nothing is in demand more than something that can't be ordered), the good news is that it shouldn't take long to refill the pipeline. On the other hand, if this is a genuine sellout, the gang in Redmond needs to get on the horn with its suppliers and tell them to step up production. The early trend is that the 128GB model is in demand and Microsoft needs to make sure they are taking advantage of this by having enough product in stock. Otherwise, it could turn into a blown opportunity.

source: Slashgear