Well, we've had the remasters sets and Rock Band. Apple will have known that this was going to happen a good year ago, possibly more. Step up the commercialisation process by issuing more licences to manufacturers. The more product on the market, the more awareness. Basic marketing. Same goes for the sudden popularity of Beatles songs in commercials and in TV programmes. The more awareness, the bigger the sales. Makes perfect sense.
I think it's strange that some people complain about some of the products on sale now. Did you see some of the stuff available in the '60's? Tacky isn't the word. Now very expensive collectors items.
Apple don't exist as a favour to us, they are a money making enterprise, like all businesses. Don't expect them to be different, just because it's your favourite band.