ETA Late April: Apple iPad for the UK
April is coming and so is the upcoming Apple iPad tablet device. No word yet on when the device will actually hit store shelves, but we have received reports that it will take late up to late April before we see the gadget on sale.
This report comes as a bit of a letdown since the US release of the tablet will be significantly earlier: April 3. While we might have to wait a few extra weeks, the device will still be the same. Those in the US hoping to get a non-3G version of the iPad will have to wait until the UK launch as the non-3G versions are still reported to be unavailable.
The reasons for the delays and unavailability of the non-3G version have led many to believe that Apple’s China based manufacturers have encountered some form of production problems. No word yet on what the problem specifically is, though some have expressed worries that the iPad’s parts may have a high breakdown rate –just like the batteries of the early generation iPods.
In any case, the launch of the iPad will still push through and Vodafone will be offering the device to its clients. Orange Mobile UK has also expressed interest in subsidizing the tablet, though no confirmations have been given.
Specs wise, this tablet really does float somewhere between a smart phone and a net book. It supports apps for the iPhone and the iPod Touch; it has a 9.7 inch capacitive touch screen and a 1GHz processor. It is a fast, reliable device for accessing the net, working on small documents, reading eBook and even playing games. So far, the Apple tablet has no multi tasking capabilities –a feature which many hope will be included later.
Get to know more about the release date for the iPad at Times Online UK.
