USA: Successful sales launch of the iPad
Apple seems to have hit the jackpot with its iPad. When sales began last Saturday, long lines formed outside stores across the U.S. According to Apple, more than 300,000 of the tablet computers were sold on the first day alone.
Experts estimated that up to 700,000 iPads changed hands over the entire weekend. That would be more than expected. The sales launch was staged: Extra employees in blue T-shirts were on hand to clap incessantly and raise the mood with shouts of joy. Initially, every customer who proudly held the iPad they had just bought over their head was greeted with cheers from those still waiting. However, the queues quickly dispersed and by the end of the day there were still devices available in many stores.
According to many experts, Apple is embarking on a risky adventure with the iPad. Ten years ago, Microsoft tried to get people excited about tablet computers. The software company failed. Apple's version is based on the successful iPhone and its small additional programs, the apps. Media companies supply electronic books, videos and news pages.
Customers in Europe will have to be patient: Sales will start here at the end of April. Prices for Europe have not yet been set.
According to many experts, Apple is embarking on a risky adventure with the iPad. Ten years ago, Microsoft tried to get people excited about tablet computers. The software company failed. Apple's version is based on the successful iPhone and its small additional programs, the apps. Media companies supply electronic books, videos and news pages.
Customers in Europe will have to be patient: Sales will start here at the end of April. Prices for Europe have not yet been set.
