LG UK Explains Nexus 4 Shortage
Manufacturer says it went by retailer and operator demand when it came to supply.
It's no secret that Nexus 4 is very hard to come by. The phone sold out soon after it launched, and each time it has come back in stock, it's only been available for a couple of hours before reverting to the same, depressing 'sold out' status.
Over the weeks since it launched, many have criticized Google and LG for underestimating the demand for the phone. First of all, it's a Nexus device. The Nexus line has always been popular with those who those who like stock Android or are simply looking to avoid a long contract. Second, to say it's competitively priced is a massive understatement. This week, LG finally talked a little bit about the demand for the phone. Shockingly enough, the company just wasn't expecting so much love for the device.
"As with any sales process, LG supplies product quantities against partners'/customers' (ie retailers, operators etc) forecasts," Andy Coughlin, head of mobile at LG UK, told CNet, adding that, "demand via the Play Store has been very high in this instance."
Coughlin said that LG is working closely with Google to ensure "those who wish to purchase a handset are able to do so." Unfortunately, he offered little in the way of information as to when the phone will be readily available or even when we can expect additional stock. So far, the United States, Canada, Germany and the UK have all had a second round of stock. Sadly, that sold out almost as fast as the first shipment. We'll keep you posted!
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Jane McEntegart is a writer, editor, and marketing communications professional with 17 years of experience in the technology industry. She has written about a wide range of technology topics, including smartphones, tablets, and game consoles. Her articles have been published in Tom's Guide, Tom's Hardware, MobileSyrup, and Edge Up.
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Niva I'm not surprised at all, I'm going to hang onto my galaxy nexus until at least the next gen device after nexus 4. Nothing beats Nexus phones, my wife's nexus one by hTc inspired me and I've been disgustingly happy with the galaxy nexus.Reply
The nexus 4 is an unbelievable deal for the price though. No wonder it's selling out like crazy. -
A Bad Day Damn if you overestimate and produce tons of lackluster stuff (HP's Playbook)Reply
Damn if you underestimate and produce a handful of bargains. -
bluekoala A Bad DayDamn if you overestimate and produce tons of lackluster stuff (HP's Playbook)Damn if you underestimate and produce a handful of bargains.Reply
HP's Playbook is a nice way to put the Blackberry Playbook and the HP Slate in the same basket.
I like that.
If the Nexus 4 takes noticeably better quality pictures than the Galaxy Nexus then I'm buying it for sure. Not that the Galaxy Nexus takes inadequate photos, it's just that there's room for improvement.