14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has issued a public statement regarding the launch of its online store in China, as well as the release of its App Store now supported in Simplified Chinese. China residents can now order their Apple gadgets online, and download their favorite iOS applications from a confirmed catalogue of 300,000 titles for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.
Apple’s official announcement is reproduced below.
CUPERTINO, California—October 26, 2010—Apple® today introduced the Apple Store® in China (apple.com.cn), the easiest way to shop online for Apple products including the revolutionary iPhone® 4 and the magical iPad™. Apple’s online store in China features free shipping, free personalized engraving on any iPod® or iPad, and the ability to custom configure any Mac® with just a few clicks. The online Apple Store also offers a wide selection of third-party products and is the only place online to buy the iPod nano® (PRODUCT) RED.
“We are thrilled to open our newest online store in China,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s COO. “With personalized engraving, configure-to-order options and free shipping on everything, the Apple Store is a great destination for our customers in China.”
Apple scheduled the launch of its online store just in time for the holiday shopping season, introducing signature gift wrapping with the purchase of most Apple products including iPod, iPad and iPhone, as well as the ability to take advantage of special education pricing.
The Mac makers also announced that their popular App Store is now localized in Simplified Chinese. The report confirms the current availability of over 300,000 apps for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad.
“Also starting today, customers in China can access Apple’s legendary App Store in Simplified Chinese, with localized featured apps and charts of the most popular paid and free apps in China,” the company states.
“The App Store offers iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users access to the world’s largest catalog of apps with over 300,000 apps in 20 categories including games, business, news, sports, health, reference and travel,” adds Apple.
Interested parties can visit Apple’s Chinese online store here.