MacBook Air selling out: Should we care?

Certain Apple MacBook Air models appear to be sold out at major online retailers. Does this mean a new product is imminent or just that an aging product has limited availability?

More speculative reports this week pointed to certain Air models in sold-out status at authorized retailers, such MacMall and MacConnection. A quick check of Best Buy's site also indicates that the high-end 2.13GHz model is not available online (see graphic).

Some MacBook Air models are sold out at Best Buy. Is this a tea leaf MacBook Air fans should be paying attention to?

(Credit: Best Buy)

That said, I made a few calls to local Los Angeles area Apple Stores and found three locations that had 1.86GHz and 2.13GHz Air models in stock. I also checked with the big Apple Store on 5th Avenue in New York. They, however, were sold out, according to the sales associate I spoke with.

Should longtime MacBook Air users who are craving an update get their hopes up for a rumored smaller MacBook Air? Only Apple knows of course, but it bears repeating that the current Air, as great as it is, is showing its age.