According to a report from MacWorld, Apple is wiping its hands and walking away from the Blackjack table for the remainder of 2008. It’s been quite a year for the Cupertino crew, arguably with plenty more ups than downs (stock price aside). An Apple spokesperson told MacWorld simply that, “our holiday line-up is set.” Hmm. This might come as a bit of a disappointment to plenty of Apple fans who have been hoping rumors of refreshed iMacs and Mac minis held true, but Apple feels it has done enough for this year and for the holiday season. What may likely end up being the biggest story for Apple this holiday season is unfortunately not a positive one. The iPhone 3G, a handset that has cemented Apple’s position as a force to be reckoned with in the mobile industry, is going to be a tough buy this time around. As the in-store activation requirement remains in effect for the holidays, many could be deterred from including the iPhone 3G on their holiday shopping lists. When contacted, one Apple Store location in New York recommended we, “just buy a gift card instead, [the recipient] won’t mind!” Right then. Many people eying a mobile gift this season are likely going to be deterred by the fact that their recipient will have to battle through holiday traffic just to get their hands on the gift right away. The alternative, actually handing someone a phone, is obviously a bit more desirable. Regardless, Apple addicts, it looks like your next fix isn’t coming until 09 so in the meantime you’ll have to look elsewhere for some fresh new gear.

Read