A leading American technology market analyst has predicted record quarter-sales for Apple’s iPod.

Shaw Wu believes Apple will sell 7.1 million iPods in the current quarter, according to Macworld UK.

With figures up 15 per cent, quarter-on-quarter, Mr Wu has warned that average recommended retail prices may come under “greater than expected pressure”.

In a memo to clients obtained by the Apple news website, Mr Wu told clients: “We have noticed very aggressive pricing, particularly on the 4GB iPod minis,” he said.

“We believe part of the reason is that iPod inventories remain relatively high on an absolute basis and this aggressive promotion is to ensure sales in an otherwise slower consumer period.”

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