Last week we saw that Apple's supply of launch day pre-orders for the new iPad had been exhausted, with orders taken at that time expected to go out by March 19th. Now Apple has confirmed that its initial stock of the third generation iPad has sold out, and a quick check of the Cupertino firm's online store has shown that shipping times of new orders have slipped even further. As you can see above, orders of any of the new iPad models are now expected to ship within two to three weeks. Apple told USA Today that response to its new tablet has been "off the charts." The company's full statement:
"Customer response to the new iPad has been off the charts and the quantity available for pre-order has been purchased. Customers can continue to order online and receive an estimated delivery date."
If you didn't place a pre-order for the new iPad but still want one on day one, you can mosey on down to your local Apple store or Apple reseller on Friday and try your luck that way. Apparently some folks have already followed that advice, as a report out of SlashGear shows that two guys have already lined up outside of Apple's Regent Street retail store in London. The two have been queued up since the 10th.
If you don't feel like following in Ali and Zohaib's footsteps by heading to a nearby Apple store, eBay and Craigslist will also likely be options, although you'll likely end up ponying up some extra cash over Apple's retail price going that route. For folks that want to be one of the first of their friends with the new iPad but don't feel like spending their Friday outside of an Apple retail store, though, that premium may be worth it. The patient types out there that are ok with waiting a couple of weeks for a shiny new iPad can place an order at Apple's online store right here.
Via Today's iPhone, SlashGear, USA Today