Global iPad launch delayed by one month, Apple announces
Apple has blamed the delay on "surprisingly strong" demand by US customers where a reported 300,000 units sold the first day.
Wednesday, 14, Apr 2010 05:32
By Ciara Trudeau.
The iPad's much-anticipated international release has been delayed for one month due to "much higher" than anticipated demand in the US.
Apple's newest "it" product, which boasts a 9.7in touchscreen, is said to be a cross between a smartphone and a laptop. Customers in the UK will be able to pre-order the device from May 10th, before it becomes widely available at the end of the month.
The first American models started at $500 and came with wi-fi instead of 3G connectivity. Shortly after its launch hundreds of disgruntled iPad owners complained of connectivity issues.
The company has blamed the delay on "surprisingly strong" demand by customers in the US where a reported 300,000 units sold the first day.
"Demand is far higher than we predicted and will likely continue to exceed our supply over the next several weeks," Apple said in a statement.
Apple faces a potential backlash from retailers overseas who are relying on the iPad to draw in customers. But analysts said frustration could lead to pent-up demand once the device becomes available.
The electronics giant is helping to foster a market for tablet computers which analysts expect will grow to as many as 50 million units by 2014.
Stuart Miles, who runs technology website Pocket-lint, said: "The sales figures show there is an appetite for a touchscreen device, but the longer they leave it the more chance other manufacturers have of getting in on the game."
Following today's announcement, Apple shares, which have risen approximately 15 per cent this year, climbed one per cent, after touching a record high of $245.75 in early Nasdaq trading on Wednesday.