An interesting dialog with Peter Moore, Microsoft’s corporate vice president of Worldwide Marketing and Publishing for Xbox, covers issues ranging from the two SKUs to replenishing consoles in stores. Moore argues that consumers were given a choice at launch with the two SKUs (core and premium,) but were they really? Because of the severe shortage, if consumers were only able to purchase a core bundle - even though they’d prefer a premium - many times they went with the less preferred core package. Some choice, eh?

As for future shipments to stores, here’s what Moore had to say:

We’re working around the clock to get all of our retailers, large and small, as many consoles as we can humanly make. We understand the amazing demand for Xbox 360, and we will continue to do our best. However, demand will outstrip supply for this busy holiday season. We expect supply to catch up with demand sometime early next year.

For all those folks that want an Xbox 360 and have not been able to get their hands on one, I want to thank you for your patience. Keep checking in with your local retailers and ask them when they expect their next shipments so you can plan accordingly.

Supply will “catch up with demand sometime early next year?” How early are we talking? Will everyone who wants a 360 now have one by January or February? Unlikely, but then again it wouldn’t be surprising if people who are demanding 360s now just decide to wait a little longer to get a machine. Or they could decide to simply wait for a certain upcoming Sony or Nintendo home console.

In the meantime, anyone who wants a 360 before Christmas may have to pester their local retailer, or import from Japan, in the meantime.

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