14 DAY TRIAL // While we wait for Apple to confirm whether or not the International launch of the iPad 2 is still on track for March 25, Japan is one of the territories to see the tablet’s launch delayed, in wake of the recent earthquake.
Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris confirmed that Apple Japan is currently focused on recovering from the tragedy that hit the Land of the Rising Sun on March 11, Friday, last week.
"We are delaying the launch of the iPad 2 in Japan while the country and our teams focus on recovering from the recent disaster," Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris said in an e-mail.
"Our hearts go out to the people of Japan, including our employees and their families, who have been impacted by this terrible tragedy," Kerris added, according to a report by CNet.
On March 10, Apple said that iPad 2 will be available in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK on March 25.
It remains to be seen whether the visibly tight iPad 2 shipments will also push the launch dates for other territories.
Apple is to announce availability in many more countries around the world in the coming months, the company said. As usual, Cupertino will confirm further international availability and pricing at a later date.
In related news, the folks handling Apple Japan’s retail operations have taken it upon themselves to support earthquake victims by providing power, shelter and comfort.
Apple executive reportedly “Facetimed” with the managers at one Tokyo store telling them that if the staff wished to travel home, Apple would foot the bill for any food, drink, or transportation fees.