Apple Store's Black Friday deals match competitors' prices

Usually, this story wouldn't be a big deal, but Apple has covertly sent a message to all of its retail store employees telling them that they are authorized to reduce the prices of their computers to match the advertised low prices of their competitor/partners.

Until recently, Apple kept very tight control over the prices of its hardware and software. The only discounts were a few bucks off on Amazon, or education or corporate discounts. Otherwise, you pretty much see the MSRP wherever you go. So, Apple matching other's prices wouldn't be anything to talk about really.

It is a big deal now, however, because retailers such as Best Buy have dropped the prices of Apple computers by up to $150. For instance, the base model MacBook can now be purchased for $899, $100 off MSRP.

Amazon is also notorious for having extra low prices on iPods. Sometimes as much as $100 off.

• Apple iPod touch 8GB for $209.98 ($9 drop)
• Apple iPod touch 16GB for $269.98 ($19 drop)
• Apple iPod touch 32GB for $359.98 ($20 drop)

Will Apple accept these lower prices? If IFO Applestore is to be believed, they will.

Why is Apple keeping this a secret? Probably to protect its bottom line. People not in the know will most likely not ask that the $100 or so get taken off of the price. Apple keeps the cash.

In all likelihood, these deals will be matched or exceeded by Apple Stores on Black Friday. Apple is notorious for giving significant (but not Crazy Eddie insane) discounts on Black Friday.

We might even see that eight hundred (99) dollar laptop that everyone went nuts about last month.