iPod shortage

The Wall Street Journal (subscription article) reports that Apple is suffering from a shortage of iPods -- they are not able to meet market demand, which is curtailing both revenues and profits.  Plus, they are losing customers to other digital music providers who want to buy one as a gift for this holiday season.

This is critical for Apple because the iPod accounts for almost a quarter of their business:

The iPod line is now a crucial piece of Apple's business, accounting for 23% of Apple's $2.35 billion in revenue in its most recent quarter.

This customer tried to buy one and was told they weren't available until mid-January.