Apple Accepting iPad Apps, Plans to Feature Them in ‘Grand Opening’

In a typical move, Apple has sent out emails to registered developers, announcing that its review board is now accepting software developed with iPhone SDK 3.2 Beta 5, for what the company calls a “grand opening” for iPad applications. Developers must submit their apps by March 27, 5pm PDT, should they want Apple to feature them in the “grand opening.”

"iPad will begin shipping soon and your opportunity to be part of the grand opening of the iPad App Store starts today," the company announced in an email sent to registered iPhone developers. "Submit your iPad app now for an initial review by the App Review Team and receive feedback on its readiness for the grand opening."

Ensuring that it has enough applications for the “grand opening,” Apple requests that developers have their apps ready by March 27. According to a screenshot posted at 9to5mac (available above), the Mac maker goes to note the following key requirements:

- Build and test your iPad app using iPhone SDK 3.2 beta 5 available on the iPhone Dev Center. Only iPad apps built with iPhone SDK 3.2 beta 5 will be accepted for this initial review.
- Upload your distribution signed app through iTunes Connect by Saturday, March 27, 5pm PDT.
- The App Review Team will review your app on iPad and email you details about the readiness of your app.
- You will also receive additional information about submitting your app for final review before iPad ships.
- Only apps submitted for the initial review will be considered for the grand opening of the iPad App Store.

Apple has set the iPad’s launch for April 3 in the US, when the WiFi-only model will be released. The company plans to introduce the 3G-capable version to the market sometime later that month. Around that time, Apple will be shipping the low-end version in additional territories.