We heard the other day that Apple [AAPL] will start shipping the iPad 3G from the 7th of May 2010 in the US. We also heard that people who had pre-ordered an iPad 3G would be getting theirs a little earlier at the end of April.
Apple has just announced that people who pre-ordered the iPad 3G will receive their shiny new 3G enabled iPad on Friday the 30th of April.
They also announced that the 3G iPad would be available in their retail stores from 5PM on the 30th of April, although we just checked their website and it is still showing the 3G iPad as shipping on May 7th at the time of writing.
Apple today announced that the Wi-Fi + 3G models of its magical iPad™ will be delivered to US customers who’ve pre-ordered on Friday, April 30, and will be available in Apple retail stores the same day starting at 5:00 p.m.
Global Availability and Pre-Order Details
The rest of us in the UK and Europe have to wait till the end of May 2010 when Apple will start selling both the WiFi iPad and the 3G iPad. If you live outside the US you will be able to pre-order your iPad from the 10th of May 2010. This staggered release schedule has been a point of contention for many international Apple fans who are eager to get their hands on the latest technology. The pre-order date of May 10th will allow Apple to gauge demand and manage inventory more effectively, ensuring that the launch goes smoothly across different regions.
Features and Expectations
The iPad 3G comes with several features that set it apart from its WiFi-only counterpart. The most significant addition is, of course, the 3G connectivity, which allows users to access the internet on the go without relying on WiFi hotspots. This feature is particularly useful for business professionals, students, and anyone who needs to stay connected while traveling. The 3G model also includes GPS functionality, which enhances location-based services and applications.
Apple’s decision to release the iPad 3G in stages is likely a strategic move to build anticipation and manage supply chains effectively. The initial release in the US allows Apple to address any potential issues before the global rollout. This approach also gives developers more time to create and optimize apps that take full advantage of the 3G capabilities.
Moreover, the iPad 3G’s release comes at a time when the tablet market is beginning to heat up. Competitors like Samsung, Google, and Microsoft are all gearing up to release their own tablets, making Apple’s timely release crucial for maintaining its market dominance. The iPad 3G’s combination of robust hardware, a vast app ecosystem, and seamless integration with other Apple products makes it a formidable contender in the tablet space.
The iPad 3G’s release on April 30th marks a significant milestone for Apple and its customers. Those who pre-ordered will be the first to experience the enhanced connectivity and features that the 3G model offers. For international customers, the wait until the end of May will be worth it, as they too will soon have access to one of the most anticipated tech products of the year.
via Gizmodo
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