iPod shuffle sales grew 51% from their prior level in the first full week the third-generation model of the device was available, according to the latest data from the NPD Group. Citing information from NPD published by a Barclay’s analyst, Apple Insider reported that growth continued the week of March 28, rising another 10%, an effect that is most likely attributable both to early adopters and the extended period that had elapsed before the prior model’s replacement.
Despite the rise in iPod shuffle sales, combined sales of all iPod models fell 38% year over year the week of March 21, although the drop is in line with the overall MP3 player market, which dropped 37% during the same period. While the NPD Group’s numbers factor in sales at Apple retail stores, they do not account for online or international sales.
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