Could Microsoft be trying to clear out older inventory?
There have been rumors of a newer motherboard coming with Natal, but that still doesn't explain current behavior. First real explanation coming to mind is to make it easier to the public get access to 360's when the major fall releases are about to come out. -- One time a person asked where the F button was on their keyboard. I told them they would find it next to the U button.
I was scrolling through the remainder of the lightning deals Amazon is going to offer today. Mostly out of boredom. I was surprised to see the Xbox 360 Arcade with 100 Amazon credit is going to come back at 3PM ET. Personally I have no use for an Xbox Arcade. I guess if someone really wants it, get ready to order at 3PM (ET) I'm 100% certain they won't be in stock long.
Today seems to be an electronics day sale at Amazon. They had a 46" Toshiba 120Hz LCD TV for $789 (I think) according to the posts on the Lightning deal thread it was sold out in 30 seconds. However I look ahead, and it appears the set may be offered again at 5PM ET. I'm assuming it will sell out in 30 seconds again.
$789 for a 46" LCD TV and $100 for an Xbox Arcade has got to make some shoppers who need these things very happy. -- "People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use."