Stefan Mileschin

Apple is likely to create another own goal as it attempts to give an impression to the world its iPhone 5C and 5S are in demand.

Analysts are already predicting that Apple is going to sell less than half its previous numbers of iPhones. For the first time, the company hasn't provided the number of pre-orders.

The BBC suggests Apple might have deliberately restricted the number of iPhones available in the channel in a bid to make the phones look popular, even if it means they will sell less.

Apple has done this in the past, but in normal circumstances, the phones would actually be in demand, and this is not the case.

There is every indication that Apple's plan has angered its mobile network partners.

Several networks moaned that stock of the iPhone 5S is severely limited in the UK, and will likely cause disappointment.

If any supplier speaks out, they fear they could be disadvantaged when Apple does put supplies back in the shops.

It is looking like Apple had no problems putting enough of the 5C, a lower-cost phone and newcomer to Apple's range, on the shelves.

This is the phone that many analysts think Apple will have difficulty shifting. It is too expensive for a cheap phone and has limited functionality for the price point.

Insiders from two of the companies told the BBC they suspected Apple was trying to drive sales of the cheaper 5C model after customers had been hesitant to place orders. After all, Apple refused to let customers pre-order the 5S.

http://news.techeye.net/mobile/apple...from-suppliers