14 DAY TRIAL // Earlier this month, Softpedia reported that customers looking to nab themselves an entry-level iPad 1 for $399 were out of luck, as the company was no longer carrying the base WiFi 16GB models in stock.
For brand new purchases, the situation remains unchanged. However, refurbished WiFi iPads with 16 gigs of storage have recently emerged, and they can be bought for less, actually - $349.
Upon introducing the second generation of tablet computers, Apple confirmed to everyone’s delight that iPad 2 would be priced identically, which meant that original units still left in stock were next in line for a price cut.
Apple appropriately slashed around 100 bucks off the tablet computer’s price, whether it was the low-end WiFi version with 16GB of storage capacity, or the high-performance iPad WiFi+3G with 64GB of NAND flash memory.
Last week, the last unboxed WiFi iPad 16GB was snagged from Apple’s Clearance Items section for $399.
The section reserved for refurbished (pre-owned) systems wasn’t featuring the base iPad model either, leaving customers to choose from the WiFi versions equipped with more storage, or those sporting 3G connectivity too.
This week, however, the entry-level original iPad has made a comeback.
Its lucky buyer gets the following for just $349:
Refurbished iPad with Wi-Fi 16GB (first generation)
- Originally Released April 2010 - 16GB flash drive capacity - Wi-Fi - Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR technology - 9.7-inch widescreen display - Multi-Touch screen - 1.5 pounds and 0.5 inch
As usual, Softpedia is careful to inform readers that Apple refurbished products can be regarded as brand new purchases. For those who may need more clarification on the matter, read on below, or visit Apple here.
About Apple refurbished products
Apple Certified Refurbished Products are pre-owned products that undergo Apple's stringent refurbishment process, prior to being offered for sale. They are returned under Apple's Return and Refund Policies.
While only some units are brought back because of technical issues, all of them undergo the company's rigorous quality-refurbishment process.
Service and support include 90 days of telephone support and a one-year warranty. You have the option of purchasing an AppleCare Protection Plan for your refurb, while shipping is free in the US.