UPDATEx3: Apple's online stores are now open again.

UPDATEx2: Apple has updated its site and announces the release of a refreshed MacBook line-up. More here.

UPDATE: The US Apple online store is closed as well, this is clearly not just a maintenance down-time :)

Apple has started closing its European online stores. This is usually sign of an imminent product release.

The usual message "We're busy updating the store for you and will be back shortly" is displayed in place of the store's home page.

Some reports recently claimed Apple will update its notebook line-up very soon and there are also whispers of a possible Mac mini update.

We also remind you of a report published on MacScoop, predicting several hardware updates for this quarter.

Since last year, we're also receiving reports claiming Apple will release a smaller and ultra-thin MacBook Pro. Although we didn't have news about it lately, it's possible that Apple is ready to release such a product.

Stay tuned as we'll be updating this article.