Apple confirms Australia iPad release

UPDATE: The iPad is launching in Australia on May 28, 2010. For the latest iPad Australia coverage see the  iTnews iPad Australia Launch Centre.

Apple has this confirmed that Wi-Fi versions of the iPad will be available in the US from 3 April and in Australia from "late April", according to the Apple Australia website.

The Wi-Fi + 3G model still has no specific US release date other than "late April", the same for the UK Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 3G versions.

The announcement is the first official confirmation of a US release date for the much-vaunted tablet device.

Customers will be able to pre-order both models from Apple's online store from 12 March, but only the Wi-Fi model can be reserved and picked up in store.

Apple chief executive Steve Jobs claimed that the iPad represents something completely new on the market that will change the way people use applications.

"We are excited for customers to get their hands on this revolutionary product and connect with their apps and content in a more intimate, intuitive and fun way than ever before," he said.

Apple has confirmed that the Wi-Fi model available on 3 April in the US will retail at a suggested price of US$499 for the 16GB model, US$599 for the 32GB and US$699 for the 64GB.

The Wi-Fi + 3G models will be available at a suggested retail price of US$629 for the 16GB model, US$729 for the 32GB and US$829 for the 64GB.

The company said that international pricing will be announced in April. Rumours recently suggested that pricing for the iPad in the UK could exceed that of the US.