Sold Out of Toshiba HD-A2s, Best Buy Sends HD-A3s

Sales of the Toshiba HD-A2 were fast and furious last weekend, based on the sales at various outlets. In fact, demand was so high it sold out. Many who ordered through BestBuy.com received backorder notices instead of a player.

In a surprising move, as Best Buy could simply say they're not going to get any more HD-A2s and stop there, Best Buy said in an email sent to customers, including a friend of mine, that customers with unfulfilled orders would be receiving the HD-A3 at no extra charge.

The HD-A3 launched with a retail price of $299 last month, but some stores have it at $199. Still, that's a premium over the $99 HD-A2 price, and the HD-A3 comes bundled with 300 and The Bourne Identity in addition to the five free movies that can be had after a rebate (the HD-A2 had this as well).

Nicely done, and customer friendly. What happened?