Friday, March 16, 2012
Associated Press
NEW YORK
Let the wild rumpus start.
The customary storefront crowds are expected to gather as Apple’s latest iPad goes on sale today. Long lines are likely even though customers could have ordered the new tablet computer ahead of time for first-day home delivery.
The third version of Apple’s iPad will be available in the U.S. and nine other countries beginning at 8 a.m. local time. The new model comes with a faster processor and a much-sharper screen. It also boasts an improved camera, similar to that of the latest iPhone.
For many customers, visiting a store in person — instead of having one shipped — offers them a chance to mingle with die-hard Apple fans.
Two years after the debut of the first iPad, the device’s launch has become the second-biggest “gadget event” of the year, after the annual iPhone release. A year ago, thousands lined up outside the flagship Apple store on New York’s Fifth Avenue. The device sold out on launch day, even though it didn’t go on sale until 5 p.m.
Apple does its part to encourage a party atmosphere. In past years, the company’s retail employees have provided bottled water, coffee, bagels and even cupcakes to people in line. They’ve cheered and clapped as customers entered and left. Some customers bring lawn chairs and sleeping bags. Others dress as iPhones and iPads.
For some customers, standing in line will offer the only chance to get a new iPad today. Apple quickly ran out of supplies it set aside for advance orders. The company was telling customers Thursday to expect a two- to three-week wait for orders placed through its online stores.
The new iPad is called just that: “the new iPad.” Apple declined to give it a name such as “iPad 3” or “iPad HD.” That is consistent with its naming practice for iPods, MacBooks and iMacs but a break with the way iPhone models are named.
In the U.S., the new iPad starts at $499, the same as the previous model, the iPad 2, when it debuted a year ago.