In a piece of news I haven't seen anywhere yet, a contact of ours who works at a retail outlet says that iPad pre-ordering is definitely in the works. Though Apple could likely rack up enormous sales by putting the device on the market today, seven weeks or so ahead of its launch date, they have not done so, with one observer opining that the delay is likely due to the lack of FCC authorization for the new device.
Our contact (who wishes to remain anonymous for continuing-to-be-employed reasons), passed on some information he got at a meeting about the iPad:
My store manager gave our store a little briefing on the upcoming iPad launch, and he said that customers WILL be able to pre-order and reserve iPad devices. Apple has not announced this yet, or put it in motion. They are waiting until all the correct systems are in place.
Van Buskirk noted the almost undreadable, very fine print at the bottom of the "Introducing iPad" email many of us got this week:
Some features and applications are not available in all areas. Application availability and pricing are subject to change. This device has not yet been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be, offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.
image via Apple
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