iPod: Apple Increases Number of Contractors

Apple has now 7 contractors able to provide PCB parts found in iPod models. With such a large number of suppliers, Apple is doing its best to increase volumes of iPod to satisfy consumers for Christmas buying period; but at the same time Cupertino can put the pressure on contractors to get the lowest prices possible.
Some rumor freaks might also see the sign of the forthcoming iPhone, since Apple might need equivalent PCB parts for this putative device.
Apple is also pursuing its efforts to save on packaging and shipping, as illustrated by the reduction of MB and MBPro boxes by about 50%.