14 DAY TRIAL // iPad 2 is scheduled to launch on March 11 in the U.S., with no pre-order availability just yet. However, Apple is making it clear for everyone that there are two ways to grab one on the day it is scheduled to become physically available to American customers.
Order iPad 2 through Apple
One way to get your hands on Apple’s all new magical device is by ordering it from the Apple Online store on March 11, the official launch date.
Customers get free shipping and can expect the tablet to arrive at their doors in less than 24 hours, if everything goes according to plan.
However, initial shipments can also take longer (e.g., 7-10 business days). It all depends on whether Apple’s manufacturers cope with demand, which is expected to be as high as it was when iPad 1 launched.
“Shortly after you place your order, you will receive an Order Acknowledgement email to confirm your order details, including shipping and delivery estimates for each item,” Apple states.
“Once your item has prepared for shipment and ships, you will receive a Shipment Notification email with carrier and tracking information.”
Those who place an order can visit the online Order Status 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to view the most up-to-date status of their order.
Those who are ordering an iPad 2 for someone else can enter the recipient's email address in the "Email Address (optional)" field of the Shipping module.
Make a trip to your local store
The second, and most reliable method to ensure ownership of an iPad 2 on launch day, is by visiting your local Apple retail store, says the Cupertino tech giant.
Needless to mention, there will be huge waiting lines in all major U.S. territories, so our advice is to be there early (say morning of March 11).
Since it is the second generation iPad, lines should be shorter compared to those seen at the original iPad’s debut.
Apple encourages fans to start their quest for a retail store by visiting this address.
‘Presale’ on eBay (probably best to stay away)
Reports also say that eBay sellers are already listing iPad 2 units as available for pre-order with an early shipping schedule, though such offers may spell trouble.
Some sellers may try to take advantage of the hype surrounding Apple’s iPad 2 in order to dupe unwary buyers.
For example, one person reportedly aims to sell Apple’s iPad 2 for $10,000, whereas the device costs just $499 (base model - WIFi, 16GB).
His justification is an alleged March 5-7 shipping timeframe (six to four days ahead of the tablet’s official debut).
Our advice is to stick with Apple’s offerings.
Good luck!