Apple preps iPad for April 3 launch

Apple has announced that the Wi-Fi version of its so-called “magical and revolutionary” iPad will be available for sale in the US on April 3.

Club Cupertino also confirmed that it would be accepting pre-orders for the long-awaited device beginning on March 12.

However, the Wi-Fi +3G iteration of the tablet won’t hit store shelves until late April.

In addition, all models of the iPad will be available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland and the UK in late April.

Starting at $500, the iPad allows users browse the web, send email, share photos, watch videos, listen to music, play games and read ebooks.

The device is 0.5 inches thick and weighs just 1.5 pounds — which is thinner and lighter than most laptops or netbooks — with a battery life of up to 10 hours.