Michael Pachter, the moderately famous analyst, has stated that reports of Move and Kinect shortages are nothing more than marketing ploys designed to create more demand as consumers wrestle to get their hands on the overselling ‘toys’. In his own words, “Yes, I think both companies would very much like for consumers to believe that their devices are highly sought after and difficult to obtain.”
“Sony shipped 2.5 million units in the US and Europe, and their sales are nowhere near that level, so I’m not sure how they can reconcile the fact that units shipped far exceed units sold.”
He went on to say he believes Microsoft is doing better to manage Kinect’s demand, and that Sony are simply emulating the strategy, and poorly.
“I do think that Microsoft is managing supply a bit better, and keeping standalone Kinect supply tight to make sure that there is a steady supply through Christmas.
“They have shipped a lot of console bundles, to ensure that the eBay price doesn’t get above $300 for the standalone unit, but supply of the standalone remains tight.”
He later added, “Sony are trying the same strategy as Microsoft with Kinect, making sure that there are plenty of bundles, but controlling supply of the standalone controllers.”
Well… they sure managed to con me as I personally rushed out to purchase a Kinect (sorry Sony) in time for Christmas. How are you fairing this holiday season with such high demand and ‘shortages’ of the two peripherals?
