Apple has a history of drawing down inventory of products before it launches new models. In the case of iPad Air 2, this strategy seems probable. A price guide released last week revealed the unavailability of certain configurations of the iPad Air 2. Many industry observers are wondering if this signals the demise of the much-loved tablet to make way for a grand push for the iPad Pro 2.

The price guide first appeared on Apple Insider. It showed the unavailability of the space gray and silver variants of the 32-gigabyte, Wi-fi only ultraportable tablet at several online retailers including MacMall, B&H, and Apple resellers. This development hints that the Cupertino-company will be introducing new iPad models.

A quick check of Apple's online store gives hints that the iPad Air 2 is in short supply or no stocks at all. One order placed on Apple has a delivery date of February 20. Customers need to wait until February 24 for new stock of the tablet.

It seems that Apple is not keen on replacing the stocks of the iPad Air 2. The updated inventories of resellers are proof that the tablet is undergoing a slow disappearance from the market.

Even the supply of original iPad Pro models is drying up. According to Mac Rumors, the 12.9-inch tablet is beginning to have delayed shipments. This device is either out of stock or back ordered by several weeks at resellers such as Best Buy, AT&T, and Verizon.

However, these lengthy shipping times can also be attributed to the supply chain. Apple CEO Tim Cook admitted that they underestimated the demand for the iPad. He also mentioned an issue with one of their suppliers.

It is improbable to speculate that the iPad Air will be the sacrificial lamb to make way for the iPad Pro 2. The success of the iPad Pro will cast more shadow on the iPad Air. Apple is expected to release the iPad Pro 2 soon.

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