Best Buy Getting Apple iPads For April 3 Launch

By Joseph Palenchar -- TWICE, 3/29/2010

Cupertino, Calif. - Apple said the Wi-Fi version of its iPad will be available in all of its 221 Apple retail stores, its Web site and in most Best Buy stores beginning Saturday.

Previously, the company said the device would be available April 3 through its stores and online site but declined to disclose whether any of its authorized retailers would have it in store on that day. Apple, however, said it always planned to offer the iPad through authorized resellers.

Apple also announced that it will offer free iPad setup for every customer who buys an iPad at the Apple stores, helping purchasers set up email accounts, load their favorite apps from the App Store and more.

All U.S. Apple stores beginning Saturday will also host iPad workshops to help customers learn more about the product.

Suggested retails for the Wi-Fi-only iPads on sale April 3 are $499 for a 16GB model, $599 for 32GB and $699 for 64GB. The Wi-Fi + 3G models will be available in late April at a suggested $629 for 16GB, $729 for 32GB and $829 for 64GB.

All versions will be sold through Apple's stores, most Best Buy stores, other select authorized resellers and campus bookstores. The iBooks app for the iPad will be available as a free download from the App Store in the U.S. on April 3.