If you’re looking to be first in line to pre-order Apple’s new iPad, then set your alarm, because Steve Jobs’s latest creation is available for pre-order in the U.S. early on Friday, March 12: 5:30 a.m. Pacific Time or 8:30 a.m. for those of us on the East coast.
While details are still scarce, TidBits managed to snag the elusive details from Apple about the timing of the pre-order. As of Friday morning, you’ll be able to log on to Apple online store and place your order for the device, which goes on sale on April 3—assuming the company’s site manages to withstand the possible onslaught of excited customers. Pre-ordering allows you to have an iPad delivered to your door, or alternately lets you reserve a Wi-Fi model for pick up at your local Apple Store location on launch day.
Only the Wi-Fi model will be available on April 3—the 3G-equipped version won’t be released until late April. The Wi-Fi models run $499 for 16GB, $599 for 32GB, and $699 for 64GB. International customers will also have to wait until later in April to order their iPads.
[Updated 3/11, 9:28 p.m. to correct information about the Wi-Fi and 3G models.]