I would say it’s rather “daring” but clever marketing!
For two reasons;
1. If a product is a bit daring, or is not a certain “runner” – it would be devastating for a “small” company like apple (well…) to produce faaar to many units that never gets sold.
I would even go so far and say – apple did this earlier in their history, and learned that this can brake your neck!
Let’s just assume that …Samsung by coicidence release a smashing mobile-phone 2 days before the 3G hits the store…
This unit is just soooo much cooler, and cheaper than the 3G!
-you still think that everybody runs for the 3G?
I’d say they learned it well;
Try the market, and also – make a;
2. HYPE OF IT!
- it’s so darn popular that it’s imposible to get a unit to all the population on earth screaming after more!!!
(…are you sure you wanna buy this samsung unit??)

I don’t think they are stupid at apple…
Rather contrary!

R