Apple iPad Ready For Pre-Order on March 12, Purchase on April 3

Are we prepared for the tech industry to be rocked again? Well, Apple is ready to take the stage with the approaching release of their highly regarded iPad. Both Wi-Fi and 3G-enabled models will begin shipping in April, but anyone can throw down cash in March to secure their pre-orders.

March 12, which is only a week away, will be the date when frantic Apple fans can get their early bids in for the iPad. Sales are expected to be high (and with the potential to sell out), especially with loyal fans likely willing to sell their soul for this product. But have no fear — Apple's online store and retail stores are willing to take pre-orders to put worrisome minds at ease.

And on April 3, 2010 — the day that will make tech history — Apple will be shipping the Wi-Fi only iPad to the public. Later on in April, 3G models will be shipping as well. Limited international availability will begin later on in April too. And yes, this all is happening sooner than we think, but I still feel bad for those who are counting down the days (it must feel like an eternity for them).

Pricing is set as follows for the iPad's Wi-Fi only models:

• $499 for 16GB
• $599 for 32GB
• $699 for 64GB

For the 3G enabled models, the iPad gets slightly more expensive:

• $629 for 16GB
• 729 for 32GB
• $829 for 64GB

It doesn't end there though. Be sure to add in the 3G data charges from your preferred provider (if you have the 3G-enabled model). Oh, and you also can't forget the price of the applications that many are going to want to install. Perhaps a few iPad-specific magazine subscriptions as well? E-books? Games? Weird applications that aren't particularly useful but will be purchased anyways?

In other words, consumers should beware that this could be a much larger investment than first imagined, especially if they want to get the most out of the device.

Either way, Apple must really think highly of their device. The press release described the iPad as a "magical and revolutionary" product. However, with all the hype surrounding it, something magical is probably the very least of what people are expecting to see.

Let's hope they deliver.