MacBook Pro 15-inch stock low, Ivy Bridge refresh shipping soon

Apple's much rumored MacBook Pro refresh is fast approaching if stock levels of current models are any indication. Multiple major resellers are reflecting low inventory and stock outs of the 15-inch MacBook Pro, which suggests that Apple is ramping down production for the existing model to make way for the next-gen version.

The current-gen 15-inch MacBook Pros are now on backorder at reseller J&R. The 2.2GHz model is listed as out of stock, while the 2.4GHz version is on order. Best Buy has also stopped taking home delivery online orders for the 2.4 GHz model with some inventory still available only in select stores.

The constrained inventory comes just as Intel is planning to ship its first batch of Ivy Bridge chips, which are expected to power the next-gen MacBook Pros. Supplier reports claim that Apple will stagger its release, starting with 200,000 units of the 15-inch model this month, 400,000 units of the 13-inch model in June, and then the 17-inch models later this year.

[via AppleInsider]