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The iPad Store - iPad FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

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iPad FAQ

Welcome to the iPad Store Frequently Asked Questions page. If you have questions about the new iPad, you have come to the right place. We hope this list answers most of your questions about Apple's exciting new product:

UPDATED 2/24/10, 5:49AM EST

When will the iPad be available?

For US customers, The iPad is estimated to be available in two stages: first, the Wi-Fi model should be available in late March, 2009, and the 3G version should be available in early April.

What models will be available?

The iPad will come in 6 total configurations. The Wi-Fi model will come in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB capacities, while the 3G model will also come in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB capacities.

What are the features of the iPad?

The main feature of the iPad is its gorgeous 9.7" multi-touch screen. It is built on the same operating system used in the iPhone, but it has a suite of software optimized for the larger screen size (1024x768). This makes it easier to browse the web, watch video, and even read ebooks with the included iBooks app.

Will the iPad run my existing iPhone software?

The iPad will run practically all existing iPhone software, either in 1x native mode (running in about 1/4 of the screen), or in 2x mode (which almost fills the iPad screen). Most app developers are already at work optimizing their programs to work with the larger iPad screen, as Apple has already done with their suite of apps.

What are the main differences between the Wi-Fi and 3G models?

Are there any features currently missing fom the iPad?

The iPad currently lacks a camera, though there are some indications that one was planned and that there is space in the enclosure for a front-facing camera. It is suggested that a later version of the iPad may indeed contain this camera. The iPad also lacks support for Flash video content, which is fairly widely used on the web. Recent comments by Steve Jobs suggest that he considers Flash "obsolete," so in all likelihood this capability will not be added to the iPad. Given the potential for significant marketshare for both the iPhone and iPad, however, it is likely that some sites will optimize their content for viewing on both platforms.

How much will it cost?

The iPad WiFi models will cost $499 for 16GB, $599 for 32GB, and $699 for 64GB. The iPad WiFi + 3G models will cost $629 for 16GB, $729 for 32GB, and $829 for 64GB. The iPad 3G models will have monthly data plans available from AT&T costing $14.99 for 250GB of 3G data, and $29.99 for unlimited 3G data. These plans can be activated from the device and can be cancelled at any time.

Will the price come down? If so, when?