Costco, one of the most popular wholesale retailers out there, has confirmed that the company is in the process of phasing out Apple  products from its inventory.   iLounge first broke the story back in October of 2010 when it was still a rumor, however the Mermbership club retailer has formally stated that the products will be phased out, without providing details as to the why of the matter.

Although the Seattle Times reports that it is a mutual split, speculations are circling that the change in Apple inventory is a result of Costco being shut our of acquiring the iPad to sell in their store, while their competitors such as Sam’s Club, Wal-Mart, and Target have been given access to iPads six months following its launch.  Costco’s involvement with the sale of Apple products did not extend beyond offering slightly discounted iPods and bundles of iTunes gift cards.

Not every one has bought into the ‘mutual split’ explanation as they remember the infamous split between Costco and Coca-Cola that removed Coke products from the shelves of the retailer after a pricing dispute in November of 2009.  The two companies worked things out and the products were returned to Costco’s inventory a month later.

While Costco and Apple duke it out behind the scenes, you’ll be glad to know that Amazon, the world’s largest retailer has an abundance of Apple iPods and iPads in stock, as well as a wide variety of iPod and iPad accessories as well.  To see Amazon’s extensive stock of Apple products, you’ll want to visit the  Amazon Apple Store, where you’ll find everything from their high tech gadgets to any and every accessory to enhance them.  The new iPod Touch 4th Generation is getting rave reviews.