Apple iPad available starting April 3 in the US

Apple announced on Friday (Saturday in the Philippines) the availability of its highly anticipated iPad in the United States beginning April 3, with pre-orders to begin on March 12. According to PR PR Newswire, customers in the US can pre-order either the Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi+3G model from the Apple online store starting on March 12. People can also place reservations for the Wi-Fi model, which will be available at Apple retail stores beginning April 3. Prices and availability The iPad Wi-Fi model range will be available in the US starting April 3 with an SRP of US$499 for 16GB, US$599 for 32GB, and US$699 for 64GB. The Wi-Fi+3G model range will become available towards the end of April with an SRP of US$629 for 16GB, US$729 for 32GB and US$829 for 64GB. Both iPad models will be available starting late April in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland and the UK. The device will become available in other countries later in the year. Local pricing has yet to be announced. 'Completely new and revolutionary' -Jobs The iPad is just 0.5in thick and weighs only 1.5lbs, with an expected battery life of up to 10 hours. Apple's Multi-Touch interface technology —first seen on the iPod Touch— provides an innovative way of enjoying the internet and various media, from music and videos to games and ebooks. "The iPad is something completely new. We're excited for customers to get their hands on this magical and revolutionary product and connect with their apps and content in a more intimate, intuitive and fun way than ever before," said Apple CEO Steve Jobs. - GMANews.TV